Southern Fried Chicken

Indulge in the classic and beloved Southern Fried Chicken, a dish that captures the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Often served with a creamy and seasoned gravy, this delectable recipe brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal.

Prepared by the Taste of Home Test Kitchen, this Southern Fried Chicken recipe calls for a delightful blend of spices, making each bite a burst of flavor. The combination of onion powder, paprika, salt, rubbed sage, pepper, and dried thyme adds a delightful aroma and taste to the chicken.

To create the perfect crispy coating, dip the chicken pieces in a mixture of egg and milk, and then coat them in a seasoned flour mixture. Fry the chicken in oil until it turns a beautiful golden brown, ensuring a crispy and mouthwatering texture.

For an extra touch of Southern charm, serve the fried chicken with a creamy and indulgent gravy made from flour, salt, dried thyme, pepper, milk, and heavy whipping cream. The gravy’s smooth and savory consistency perfectly complements the crispy chicken, elevating the dish to a whole new level.

INGREDIENTS:

FRIED CHICKEN:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon rubbed sage
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 3½ pounds), cut up
• Oil for frying

CREAMY GRAVY:

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2½ cups milk
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the first seven ingredients. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg and milk. Dip chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then add to the flour mixture, shaking to coat.
2. In a large skillet, heat ¼ inch of oil; fry the chicken until browned on all sides. Cover and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the juices run clear and the chicken is tender, turning occasionally. Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and keep warm. Drain the skillet, reserving 3 tablespoons of the drippings.
3. For the gravy, in a small bowl, combine the flour, salt, thyme, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Add the mixture to the skillet. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve the gravy with the chicken.

YIELD:

Makes 6 servings.

COOKING TIME:

Prep: 25 minutes, Cook: 45 minutes.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• To ensure even cooking, use a thermometer to check if the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

TIPS:

• Serve the Southern Fried Chicken with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, collard greens, or cornbread for a complete and soul-satisfying meal.

Southern Fried Chicken is a beloved and classic dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Crafted by the Taste of Home Test Kitchen, this delightful recipe brings together a blend of aromatic spices to create a crispy and flavorful coating for the tender chicken pieces.

To prepare this mouthwatering dish, dip the chicken pieces in a mixture of egg and milk, and then coat them with a seasoned flour mixture, ensuring a delightful and crispy texture. Fry the chicken in oil until it turns a beautiful golden brown, creating a visually appealing and tempting dish.

The dish is elevated with the addition of a creamy and seasoned gravy, made from a rich blend of flour, salt, dried thyme, pepper, milk, and heavy whipping cream. This luxurious gravy perfectly complements the crispy fried chicken, creating a harmonious and indulgent combination.

To complete the meal, serve the Southern Fried Chicken with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, collard greens, or cornbread, transforming it into a satisfying and heartwarming feast.

So, savor the traditional flavors of Southern Fried Chicken, a dish that brings comfort and joy to every bite. Share this delightful dish with family and friends and experience the true essence of Southern cooking.