Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Here’s a delicious homemade version of the meal in the picture:

Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 8 pieces chicken (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Mix all coating ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.
4. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to help the coating stick.
5. Let the coated chicken rest for 10–15 minutes.
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry chicken for 12–18 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup warm milk or heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. Drain well.
3. Mash with butter and warm milk until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Brown Gravy

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
4. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
5. Season to taste and pour over the mashed potatoes.

Serve the crispy fried chicken alongside the mashed potatoes with gravy. Add coleslaw, biscuits, or green beans for a complete Southern-style meal. Enjoy! 🍗🥔