Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsSlap's BBQThe Southern Comfort Recipe

The Southern Comfort Recipe

Inspired by Slap's BBQ
Time3h
Serves4

Make The Southern Comfort Recipe in just 3h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Gravy Ingredients

Method

Chicken Preparation

  1. 1

    Marinate the Chicken

    In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Coating

    In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and cornmeal together. Season with additional salt and black pepper if desired.

Frying the Chicken

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

  2. 4

    Coat and Fry the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour-cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, skin side down. Fry for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Making the Gravy

  1. 5

    Make the Roux

    In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

  2. 6

    Add Broth and Cream

    Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 7

    Season the Gravy

    Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or cream if necessary.

Serving

  1. 8

    Serve the Dish

    Plate the fried chicken and generously ladle the gravy over the top. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or collard greens.

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