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13 Crispy Fried Chicken Recipes That Taste Absolutely Delicious
Fried chicken recipes are always a Sunday favorite because they bring everyone together. It was a Sunday afternoon, and I didn’t follow the recipe perfectly because I was juggling the kids and side dishes, so some pieces cooked unevenly. But when I served them golden and hot, everyone couldn’t stop eating and laughing, and I realized that fried chicken is forgiving, fun, and always brings everyone together around the table.

When I serve fried chicken recipes, I like pairing them with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or even fresh cornbread. Sometimes, I add a side of my homemade Pie for dessert or a refreshing iced tea, and honestly, every combination makes the meal feel comforting, hearty, and full of joy for everyone at the table.
13. Classic Southern Fried Chicken

When you think about crispy fried chicken recipes, this one always comes to mind because it has the perfect golden crust and juicy meat on the inside. The trick is to marinate the chicken in buttermilk and season it well before frying it to perfection. This dish brings that comforting southern flavor to your table in the easiest way possible, and it will surely become your go-to weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk for 4 hours.
- Mix flour with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
12. Korean Fried Chicken

Among all crispy fried chicken recipes, Korean fried chicken stands out for its double-fried texture that makes it extra crunchy and delicious. The chicken is tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, and honey. It is sticky, it is crispy, and it is packed with flavor. This recipe is ideal for sharing with friends or serving as a weekend treat that feels special and fun.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken wings or drumettes
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Coat chicken in cornstarch.
- Deep fry until crispy and let rest.
- Fry again for extra crunch.
- Mix sauce ingredients in a bowl.
- Toss chicken in sauce and serve hot.
11. Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This is one of those crispy fried chicken recipes that never fails because buttermilk makes the chicken tender while the seasoned flour gives it that golden crust. Every bite is juicy and full of flavor. It is super easy to make at home for a family dinner or a picnic, and you can pair it with mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a true comfort meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk overnight.
- Mix flour with seasonings.
- Coat chicken in flour.
- Fry until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm.
10. Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken

If you love heat, then this is one of the crispy fried chicken recipes that will set your taste buds on fire. It has a spicy kick made from cayenne pepper and hot sauce that coats the crispy chicken perfectly. It is bold, it is fiery, and it is irresistibly delicious. Serve it with pickles and soft white bread for the full Nashville experience that makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken pieces
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Dredge in seasoned flour.
- Fry until crispy.
- Mix cayenne, paprika, and brown sugar with hot oil.
- Brush over fried chicken and serve.
9. Japanese Karaage Chicken

Among international crispy fried chicken recipes, karaage chicken is a Japanese favorite with a light and crunchy coating that comes from potato starch. The chicken is marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before frying, which gives it a fragrant and savory flavor. It is delicious as a snack or served with rice for a full meal that feels both authentic and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sake
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup potato starch
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger.
- Coat in potato starch.
- Deep fry until golden brown.
- Drain excess oil and serve with lemon wedges.
8. Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken

This version of crispy fried chicken recipes adds a cheesy twist that makes every bite savory and rich. Garlic and parmesan combine beautifully to coat the chicken with flavor that feels both comforting and indulgent. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with joy, and it is great for dinner parties or game nights when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken tenders
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Dip chicken in buttermilk.
- Coat with flour, garlic powder, and parmesan.
- Fry until crispy.
- Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.
7. Crispy Popcorn Chicken

When it comes to fun and easy crispy fried chicken recipes, popcorn chicken takes the crown because it is small, bite-sized, and super crunchy. It is perfect for kids’ parties or snacking while watching a movie. It is quick to make and full of flavor. You can season it with your favorite spices to make it your own and enjoy crispy goodness in every tiny bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Mix flour, cornstarch, and seasoning.
- Coat chicken cubes.
- Deep fry until golden.
- Serve with dipping sauce.
6. Honey Glazed Fried Chicken

Among all crispy fried chicken recipes, honey glazed fried chicken stands out because it combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. The golden fried chicken is brushed with warm honey that seeps into the crunchy crust and makes it sticky and irresistible. It is perfect for dinner with family or friends and can be paired with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tbsp butter
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Coat chicken in seasoned flour.
- Fry until golden and crispy.
- Melt honey and butter together.
- Brush over fried chicken while warm.
- Serve immediately.
5. Cajun Fried Chicken

If you are craving bold flavors, this is one of the crispy fried chicken recipes that will make your taste buds dance. Cajun seasoning brings spicy, smoky, and aromatic flavors to the fried chicken. Every piece is coated in a crispy crust with a kick of heat. It is great with rice, coleslaw, or cornbread and perfect for casual family dinners or a weekend treat that feels special and full of southern charm.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Mix flour with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge chicken in flour mixture.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with sides of choice.
4. Coconut Fried Chicken

Coconut fried chicken is one of the unique crispy fried chicken recipes that gives you a tropical twist on the classic dish. The chicken is coated in a mix of shredded coconut and flour, which makes it extra crunchy and lightly sweet. It is perfect for summer meals or parties and pairs wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce, making every bite flavorful and exotic without complicated steps or ingredients.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken breasts, cut into pieces
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Mix flour with coconut and seasonings.
- Coat chicken in coconut flour mixture.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Garlic Herb Fried Chicken

Among crispy fried chicken recipes, garlic herb chicken is loved for its fragrant and savory taste. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of garlic, parsley, and thyme, then coated and fried to a golden crisp. It is perfect for a family meal or special occasion because it brings both aroma and crunch to the table. Every bite is tender and full of flavorful delight that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Mix flour with garlic and herbs.
- Coat chicken thoroughly.
- Fry until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with sides of choice.
2. Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

This is one of the crispy fried chicken recipes perfect for everyone who wants fried chicken without gluten. The coating is made from rice flour and cornstarch, which creates an extra crunchy crust. The chicken stays juicy inside and every bite is full of flavor. It is ideal for family meals or lunchboxes and allows everyone to enjoy classic fried chicken with a safe and tasty twist.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken pieces
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Mix rice flour and cornstarch with seasonings.
- Coat chicken completely.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with favorite sauces.
1. Extra Crispy Fried Chicken

The number one on our list of crispy fried chicken recipes is extra crispy fried chicken because it is the ultimate indulgence. The chicken is double-coated and fried twice, which makes it crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Every bite delivers that satisfying crunch and flavor. It is perfect for dinner parties, weekend meals, or anytime you crave fried chicken that is truly unbeatable and unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken pieces
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk.
- Coat in flour and cornstarch mixture.
- Fry once until lightly golden.
- Fry a second time until extra crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
CONCLUSION
Fried chicken recipes are the ultimate crowd-pleasers because they combine crisp, golden exteriors with juicy, flavorful meat inside. From classic Southern fried chicken to international favorites like Korean or Japanese karaage, each version brings its own unique twist while keeping the heartwarming comfort intact. Pair them with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a refreshing drink, and you’ve got a meal that fills the table with laughter, satisfaction, and plenty of seconds. Every bite delivers joy, nostalgia, and that irresistible crunch that makes fried chicken an enduring favorite.