Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe CaféSouthern-fried Chicken Recipe

Southern-fried Chicken Recipe

Inspired by The Café
Time2h
Serves2

1/2 chicken, choice of two sides.

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Ingredients

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Chicken Marinade

Sides (Choose Two)

Method

Marinating the Chicken

  1. 1

    Prepare the Marinade

    In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  2. 2

    Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Preparing the Coating

  1. 3

    Mix the Coating

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Frying the Chicken

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

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

  2. 5

    Dredge the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

  3. 6

    Fry the Chicken

    Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

  4. 7

    Drain the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Preparing the Sides

  1. 8

    Prepare Two Sides

    Choose two sides from mashed potatoes, collard greens, biscuits, or macaroni and cheese, and prepare them as per your preferred recipes.

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