✔ In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.
✔ Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully coated.
✔ Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results!).
✅ This makes the chicken incredibly moist & flavorful!
2️⃣ Prepare the Crispy Coating
✔ In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and spices.
✅ Cornstarch = Extra Crunchy Coating!
3️⃣ Dredge the Chicken for Maximum Crispiness
✔ Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
✔ Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat each piece well.
✔ Shake off excess and place on a wire rack.
✔ Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes (this helps the crust stick!).
✅ Double Dredging Tip: For an extra-thick crust, dip back into buttermilk and coat again in flour mixture.
4️⃣ Fry to Crispy Perfection
✔ Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Fry 3-4 pieces at a time (don’t overcrowd!).
✔ Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
✔ Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
✔ Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
✅ Resting on a rack keeps the chicken crispy—avoid stacking!
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Serve hot with coleslaw, cornbread, mashed potatoes, or biscuits!
✔ Drizzle with honey for a sweet-salty twist 🍯.
✅ Crispy, juicy, and full of bold Southern flavors!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken – Toss fried chicken in a spicy butter sauce 🌶
🔹 Buttermilk Ranch Fried Chicken – Add ranch seasoning to the flour mix 🌿
🔹 Extra Crunchy Double Coating – Dip in buttermilk twice for a thicker crust
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Use rice flour + cornstarch for an ultra-crispy GF coating
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to stay crispy.
✔ Avoid microwaving—it makes the crust soggy!
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months (reheat in the oven from frozen).
✅ Still crispy & delicious the next day!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The BEST Southern Fried Chicken!
This Southern-Style Crispy Fried Chicken is golden brown, extra crunchy, and incredibly juicy. The buttermilk marinade makes it tender, while the perfectly seasoned crust adds the ultimate crunch!
