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Easy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

National Fried Chicken Day

Celebrate July 6 with Crispy, Golden Homemade Fried Chicken

There are few comfort foods that bring people together quite like fried chicken. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor, it's a meal that has earned its place at family dinners, summer picnics, neighborhood cookouts, and holiday gatherings alike.

Today, we're celebrating National Fried Chicken Day with a simple, classic recipe that's easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to become a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a backyard barbecue, a Sunday supper, or simply craving a little comfort food, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

So gather your ingredients, heat up the skillet, and let's make some crispy, golden fried chicken!

Easy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

20–25 minutes

Servings

4–6

Ingredients

Chicken

Coating

Buttermilk Mixture

For Frying

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Pour enough oil into a heavy skillet, Dutch oven, or deep fryer to allow the chicken to cook evenly.

Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

A kitchen thermometer is your best friend here—maintaining the correct temperature helps produce crispy chicken without becoming greasy.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, combine:

  • Flour

  • Paprika

  • Garlic powder

  • Salt

  • Pepper

In a separate bowl, stir together:

  • Buttermilk

  • Paprika

  • Salt

  • Pepper

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before breading.

Dip each piece into the seasoned flour.

Next, coat it in the buttermilk.

Return it to the flour mixture for a second coating.

This double-dredging technique creates an extra crispy crust that stays crunchy after frying.

Step 4: Fry

Carefully test the oil with a small pinch of flour. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Gently lower the chicken into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Cook until golden brown, turning occasionally for even browning.

Cooking times vary depending on the size of the pieces:

  • Chicken tenders: 8–10 minutes

  • Wings: 10–12 minutes

  • Drumsticks and thighs: 15–18 minutes

  • Bone-in breasts: 20–25 minutes

Always confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.

Step 5: Drain & Serve

Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray.

Allow it to rest for several minutes before serving to help keep the coating crisp.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Grandma Jackie's Kitchen Tips

Season Every Layer

Don't be afraid to lightly season both the flour mixture and the buttermilk. Layering the seasoning gives every bite more flavor.

Marinate for Extra Tenderness

If time allows, let the chicken soak in the seasoned buttermilk for 4–12 hours before cooking. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while adding incredible flavor.

Watch the Oil Temperature

If the oil gets too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.

If it's too cool, the breading absorbs excess oil and becomes greasy.

Keeping the temperature near 350°F produces the best results.

Don't Crowd the Pan

Cooking too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry in batches for crispier chicken.

Delicious Variations

Want to customize your fried chicken? Try one of these tasty twists:

Southern Hot Chicken

Add cayenne pepper and a dash of hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garlic butter over the hot chicken just before serving.

Honey Butter Chicken

Brush warm fried chicken with melted butter mixed with honey for a sweet-and-savory finish.

Herb Fried Chicken

Add dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley to the flour mixture for extra flavor.

Perfect Side Dishes

Complete your National Fried Chicken Day meal with classic comfort food favorites:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes

  • Homemade macaroni and cheese

  • Buttermilk biscuits

  • Coleslaw

  • Corn on the cob

  • Baked beans

  • Potato salad

  • Southern-style collard greens

  • Fresh watermelon

  • Sweet tea or homemade lemonade

For a picnic, pack your fried chicken alongside potato salad, fresh fruit, and iced tea—it travels well and tastes just as good served cold.

Leftover Ideas

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, don't let them go to waste!

Try using leftover fried chicken to make:

  • Crispy chicken sandwiches

  • Chicken and waffles

  • Fried chicken salad

  • Chicken wraps

  • Picnic lunch boxes

  • Chicken biscuits for breakfast

Many people even think fried chicken tastes better the next day!

Food Brings People Together

One of the reasons fried chicken has remained so popular for generations is that it's more than just a meal—it's often part of family traditions and celebrations. From backyard cookouts and church picnics to reunions and holiday gatherings, a platter of crispy fried chicken has a way of bringing everyone to the table.

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Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Whether you're planning a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or the cruise of a lifetime, Jackie Fleetwood Travels is here to help you make unforgettable memories.

Visit JackieFleetwoodTravels.com for:

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Because the best adventures are filled with amazing places, great company, and delicious food.

Happy National Fried Chicken Day!

"Life is a little better with crispy fried chicken, good friends, and a table full of laughter."