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Paul

Southern-Style Crispy Fried Chicken is a must-try dish.

This fried chicken delivers everything you love—crispy coating, juicy interior, and loads of flavor—without the need for buttermilk. A simple egg and seasoned flour dredge is all it takes to create golden, crunchy perfection. Perfect for a comforting dinner or crowd-pleasing weekend treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks or substitute with thighs, wings, or legs; skin-on for best results
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Oil for frying vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well

Method
 

  1. Season the Chicken:Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Prepare the Coatings:In one bowl, beat the eggs.In another bowl, combine flour with paprika, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, cayenne pepper, and a few extra pinches of salt and black pepper.
  3. Double Dredge:Coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and return once more to the flour for a second coat. Press the flour on firmly to help it stick.
  4. Heat the Oil:In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the Chicken:Working in batches, fry chicken pieces for about 5 minutes per side or until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  6. Drain and Serve:Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.

Notes

  • No thermometer? Drop a bit of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; it drops the oil temp and causes soggy coating.
  • Want extra crunch? Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture.
  • For a spicy kick, increase the cayenne or add chili powder.