Hands down, my favorite way ever to make fried chicken! | May 17, 2025

Southern fried chicken is a classic that warms the heart and belly with its rich history and comfort-food status. Its origins can be traced back to Scottish immigrants in the Southern United States, who brought their tradition of deep-frying chicken in fat. Over time, this melded with the seasonings and techniques of African cuisine, resulting in the savory explosion of flavors we now associate with Southern fried chicken. Nowadays, as people seek out healthier cooking methods without sacrificing flavor, air fryer recipes have become the new frontier of home cooking. This recipe offers a twist on the classic by employing the use of an air fryer, cutting down on the oil but keeping all the satisfying crunch and flavor one would expect from traditional Southern fried chicken.
A plate of this air-fried Southern style fried chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, savory collard greens, or a light and tangy cucumber salad. Don’t forget the flaky biscuits or cornbread to round out a comfort food feast.
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Air Fryer Southern Style Fried Chicken

Servings: 4
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Non-stick cooking spray
Directions
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