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Southern Fried Chicken
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High Protein
Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken

4.7(5)
25 min
Time
380°F
Temp
380 cal
Cal
4
Serves

Ingredients

Chicken
8 pieces bone-in chicken (thighs and drumsticks)
2 cups buttermilk
1 tbsp hot sauce
Breading
2 cups flour
1 tbsp seasoned salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne
1/2 tsp baking powder

Equipment

  • Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
  • Oil Sprayer Mister
  • Air Fryer Parchment Liners

Steps

  1. 1

    Soak chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

  2. 2

    Mix flour with all seasonings and baking powder.

  3. 3

    Remove chicken from buttermilk. Dredge in seasoned flour, pressing firmly. Let sit 10 minutes, then dredge again for a shaggy, thick crust.

  4. 4

    Spray generously with cooking spray. Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes per side until deeply golden and internal temp reaches 165°F at the bone.

  5. 5

    Rest 5 minutes on a wire rack so the bottom stays crispy.

💡

Tip: The overnight buttermilk soak is what makes this special — it tenderizes the meat and adds tang. Double-dredging creates the thick, craggy crust. Resting on a wire rack prevents steam from softening the bottom.

🎉

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