Paula Deen’s fried chicken makes it truly a beloved classic in Southern cooking. There’s nothing like!
Its homemade taste that brings back fond memories.
The key to success is using young, organic chickens, which tend to stay juicy and moist, especially when fried properly.
I’ll show you how!
I also recommend using a cast-iron skillet for frying to achieve an even, crispy coating.
Oh and don’t forget to season the flour mixture generously for maximum flavor.
How to Make Paula Deen Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole Chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups Self-rising flour
- 3 Eggs
- 1/3 cup Water
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- Peanut oil, for frying
- Hot sauce, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
Fill the pot no more than halfway with oil.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, beat the eggs together with 1/3 cup water and add enough hot sauce until the mixture is bright orange.
This won’t make the chicken spicy, so use liberally if desired.
Step 3:
In another shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of self-rising flour with 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
Keep this flour mixture nearby as you prep the chicken.
Step 4:
Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
Then coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture.
Step 5:
Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil.
Fry the chicken pieces until they’re golden brown and crisp, approximately 13-14 minutes for dark meat and 8-10 minutes for white meat.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose the Right Chicken
You might find that young, organic chickens hold their moisture best, making for a juicier bite.
So pick a good-quality bird for the best results.
Hot Sauce Tip
Allowing the chicken to sit in the hot sauce mixture for up to an hour will give it a deeper flavor profile without making it spicy.
This is a fantastic way to enhance the taste.
Oil and Temperature
Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F is key to achieving that perfect crispy skin.
Too low, and the chicken gets greasy; too high, and it cooks too quickly.
You’ll know you’ve got it just right when it fries to golden perfection!
What to Serve with Paula Deen Fried Chicken
Classic Mashed Potatoes
A creamy side of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with fried chicken.
You can make them smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your preference.
Consider adding butter and garlic to make them extra flavorful!
Southern Collard Greens
Collard greens are a traditional accompaniment that bring a bit of Southern flair to your meal.
They’re easy to prepare and can be cooked with bacon or ham for added taste.
Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can really brighten up the greens!
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob adds a sweet, fresh bite that complements fried chicken beautifully.
You can grill it or boil it, then slather it with butter and a dash of salt.
Try sprinkling some chili powder for a little kick!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
For something a little different, roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic choice.
They get a delicious caramelized flavor when roasted in the oven.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tangy finish that’s sure to surprise!
Quirky Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries provide a sweet yet savory side you might not think of right away.
You can bake or fry them, depending on your preference for crispiness.
Try tossing them with cinnamon or a hint of smoked paprika for an unexpected twist!
Couscous with Lemon and Herbs
Couscous keeps things light and refreshing, bringing contrasting textures to your table.
It cooks quickly and easily, making it a great choice for a busy cook.
A bit of lemon juice and fresh herbs can elevate this simple grain to new heights!
Variations and Substitutions
Using Different Chicken Cuts
You can substitute different cuts of chicken like drumsticks, thighs, or even boneless breasts without altering the recipe’s foundation.
Each cut has its unique flavor and texture, enhancing the dish in its own way.
Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the cut’s size for best results.
Alternative Oils for Frying
While peanut oil is classic, you can use other oils like canola or vegetable if you prefer.
Each oil has a slightly different smoke point which can affect the cooking process.
Always maintain a steady temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and evenly.
Spice Mix Adjustments
Adjust the spices to your preference by adding a bit more black pepper or even a touch of cayenne for heat.
You can also try other herbs like thyme or oregano to give the chicken a new dimension of flavor.
Keep tasting as you tweak to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
How to Store Leftover Fried Chicken
One way I recommend to maintain the taste and texture of leftover fried chicken is to first let it cool completely after cooking.
It’s important not to put warm chicken in the fridge because it can create condensation, which makes the coating soggy.
Wrapping Tips
Wrap each piece individually in paper towels as they do wonders for absorbing excess moisture.
Some plastic wrap or aluminum foil will help keep them fresh while also preventing any unwanted fridge smells.
Containers Matter
Put the wrapped pieces in an airtight container before placing them in the fridge.
It’s a great way to keep them for up to four days if you’re planning on eating them within the week.
Freezing for Later
If you’re thinking about storing leftovers for a longer period, freezing is your best bet.
Freeze your fried chicken by placing each piece in a ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible.
Frozen fried chicken can be stored nicely for up to four months.
Be sure to label the bags with dates so you remember when you put them away because it’s easy to forget!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the Pot
When cooking, don’t put too many chicken pieces in the pot at once because this will lower the oil temperature.
Frying fewer pieces at a time leads to crispier chicken.
Forgetting to Season the Flour
If you don’t season your flour, your chicken will lack flavor no matter how tasty your marinade is.
Before starting, make sure to mix your favorite spices into the flour.
Skipping the Thermometer
A thermometer is your best friend to ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying.
Without the right temperature, the chicken may absorb oil instead of frying to a crisp.
Paula Deen Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole Chicken cut into pieces
- 2 cups Self-rising flour
- 3 Eggs
- 1/3 cup Water
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- Peanut oil for frying
- Hot sauce to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
- Fill the pot no more than halfway with oil.
- In a medium bowl, beat the eggs together with 1/3 cup water and add enough hot sauce until the mixture is bright orange.
- This won’t make the chicken spicy, so use liberally if desired.
- In another shallow bowl, combine 2 cups of self-rising flour with 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Keep this flour mixture nearby as you prep the chicken.
- Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Then coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken pieces until they're golden brown and crisp, approximately 13-14 minutes for dark meat and 8-10 minutes for white meat.