When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a plate of crispy Southern fried chicken. Whether you’re trying to recreate the magic of Popeyes fried chicken, explore a homemade version of the Bojangles fried chicken recipe, or simply crave fried chicken extra crispy, this guide will take you through everything you need to know.
In this article, we’ll share a tried-and-tested recipe for the best fried chicken, offer tips for achieving that coveted golden crust, and even dive into variations like extra crispy spicy fried chicken. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to make Popeyes fried chicken at home—and so much more.
Why Southern Fried Chicken Is a Classic
Southern fried chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. From Sunday suppers to picnic baskets and celebratory feasts, fried chicken has been a mainstay in Southern kitchens for generations. What sets it apart is the technique: marinating the chicken, seasoning the flour, and frying it to a perfect golden crisp.
The hallmark of good Southern fried chicken? Juicy meat, a well-seasoned crust, and a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s the soul of Southern cuisine, a food that’s deeply rooted in culture, hospitality, and family.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- How to make Popeyes fried chicken at home
- How to recreate the Bojangles fried chicken recipe
- How to make your fried chicken extra crispy
- A step-by-step Popeyes spicy chicken recipe
- A copycat KFC extra crispy fried chicken recipe
- Secrets to extra crunchy fried chicken
- The ultimate best fried chicken recipe for any occasion
- Common mistakes to avoid when frying chicken
- Tools and techniques for restaurant-quality results
Ingredients for Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
Here’s everything you need to make authentic Southern fried chicken with that extra crispy texture and flavor.
For the Buttermilk Marinade:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
For the Chicken:
- 8 pieces of bone-in chicken (legs, thighs, breasts, wings)
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)
For the Seasoned Flour Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for added crunch)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spicy versions)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
How To Make Popeyes Fried Chicken (Copycat Style)
If you’ve ever wondered how to make Popeyes fried chicken, you’re in luck. This homemade version captures the bold flavor and irresistible crunch of the fast-food favorite.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marination is essential. In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasonings. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they’re well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor—just like Popeyes spicy chicken recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Dredge
In another large bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and all the dry spices. The cornstarch helps create an extra crunchy fried chicken crust that stays crispy even after cooling.
Step 3: Dredge and Double Coat
Take each piece of marinated chicken out of the buttermilk, shake off excess, and dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour. For extra crispy results, dip back into the buttermilk and re-dredge in flour. This double-dip method is key in KFC extra crispy fried chicken recipes.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Fill a deep skillet or Dutch oven with 2-3 inches of oil. Heat to 325°F (163°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy—this helps cook the chicken evenly and avoid burning.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Fry in batches without overcrowding the pan. Cook each piece for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest on a wire rack—not paper towels—to maintain its extra crispy texture.
Variations to Try
Extra Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken
To turn up the heat, increase the cayenne pepper in your flour dredge, and add chili powder. You can also drizzle with spicy honey or serve with hot sauce for a fiery finish. This method delivers the perfect extra crispy spicy fried chicken that hits all the right notes.
Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe (Homestyle)
Bojangles is known for its bold, Southern-style seasoning. Add ground sage, mustard powder, and a hint of celery salt to the flour dredge. Also, season your chicken generously before marinating. Pair with biscuits and seasoned fries for the full experience.
KFC Extra Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
To replicate the KFC extra crispy fried chicken recipe, mix 11 herbs and spices into the dredge (just like Colonel Sanders did). Use garlic salt, celery salt, thyme, basil, oregano, mustard, paprika, white pepper, and more. Fry at a slightly lower temp (around 300°F) to create more craggy crunch on the outside.
Tips for Fried Chicken Extra Crispy
Getting fried chicken extra crispy isn’t just about the coating—it’s a combination of steps:
- Cornstarch – Mix with flour to boost crunch.
- Double dredging – Dip twice for thicker, textured crust.
- Dry resting – Let coated chicken rest on a rack for 15 minutes before frying.
- Hot oil – Keep oil between 325–350°F.
- Don’t overcrowd – It lowers oil temperature and makes the crust soggy.
- Use a wire rack – Drain fried chicken on a rack, not paper towels.
These steps are what distinguish regular fried chicken from truly extra crunchy fried chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned cooks can make missteps. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the marinade: Essential for flavor and tenderness.
- Wet coating: Always shake off excess buttermilk before dredging.
- Cold chicken: Let it sit out for 30 minutes before frying.
- Improper oil temperature: Too cold = greasy chicken; too hot = burnt outside, raw inside.
- Paper towels: They steam the chicken. Always drain on a wire rack.
How to Keep Fried Chicken Crispy
Once you’ve nailed the best fried chicken recipe, you want to keep that crisp intact. Here’s how:
- Serve immediately – Freshly fried chicken is at its peak.
- Oven warming – Keep finished pieces in a 250°F oven on a rack.
- Avoid sealing in containers – Traps steam and softens the crust.
If you’re packing leftovers, use a brown paper bag to allow airflow. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Tools and Equipment for Perfect Fried Chicken
Investing in the right tools makes the process easier:
- Digital thermometer: For checking oil and internal meat temperature.
- Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet: Retains heat better.
- Wire rack + baking sheet: For draining and oven holding.
- Tongs: For safe handling.
- Mixing bowls: For marinating and dredging.
What To Serve With Fried Chicken
Complete your crispy Southern fried chicken experience with traditional sides:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- Collard greens
- Cornbread
- Pickles and hot sauce
Pair with sweet iced tea or lemonade for a true Southern feast.
Final Recipe Recap: Extra Crunchy Fried Chicken
Ingredients Recap:
- Marinate with buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and spices
- Flour dredge with cornstarch, paprika, garlic/onion powder, cayenne
- Double-dip for crunch
- Fry at 325°F for golden crispiness
Whether you’re aiming to make a Popeyes spicy chicken recipe, KFC extra crispy fried chicken recipe, or the perfect Bojangles fried chicken recipe, this guide gives you everything you need for unbeatable fried chicken at home.
So heat that oil, grab your favorite spices, and get ready to bite into the best fried chicken recipe you’ve ever made—fried chicken extra crispy, just the way it should be.
