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Extra Crispy Southern Fried Chicken served with a fresh garden salad

Extra Crispy Southern Fried Chicken with Garden Salad

A beloved classic featuring crunchy, golden-brown chicken paired with a fresh garden salad for a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 8 pieces chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs) Choose fresh, organic chicken for best flavor.
  • 2 cups buttermilk Can substitute with a plant-based milk and vinegar mixture for dairy-free.
  • 2 tsp salt Use high-quality sea salt for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch Helps create extra crunch.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Garden Salad
  • 3 cups lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cucumber sliced
  • 6 pieces cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Coating
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken
  1. Remove chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere the coating.
Fry Until Golden
  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare & Serve
  1. While the chicken is frying, toss the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion with olive oil and lemon juice in a large bowl. Serve this colorful salad alongside the crispy chicken.

Notes

Extra crispy texture can be achieved by adding a bit of baking powder to the flour mixture and ensuring the oil is at the correct temperature. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.