Fried chicken is up there with apple pie and hamburgers as one of America's iconic foods. And if you're into this dish as much as we are, you know that not all fried chicken is the same. Over the years we've traveled thousands of miles to sample variations on the theme, then developed recipes—dozens of recipes—so you can share the goodness at home. Here are six of the best fried chicken recipes to ever come out of the test kitchen.
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6 of the Best Fried Chicken Recipes From Across the USA
From hot and spicy to ultra-crunchy, here are some of our favorite takes on this iconic American dish.
By Published Aug. 8, 2018
North Carolina Dipped Fried Chicken—From Salisbury, N.C.
This impossibly crunchy fried chicken stands up to a dunk in a sharp, tangy, peppery sauce. We visited Salisbury, North Carolina, birthplace of this local favorite, to learn some of the secrets. [GET THE RECIPE]
Hawaiian Fried Chicken—From Hawaii
Ginger, soy sauce, and sesame give these boneless fried chicken thighs a decidedly Pacific flavor. Potato starch in the coating makes them extra crunchy, making them the perfect addition to sandwiches. [GET THE RECIPE]
Garlic Fried Chicken—From Bakersfield, Calif.
Tips from those in the know led us to Bakersfield, California, birthplace of this intensely flavorful chicken. Garlic in the marinade, garlic in the coating, and garlic in the finishing sauce gives it a savory, three-fer garlic punch. [GET THE RECIPE]
Creole Fried Chicken—From New Orleans, La.
It’s all about the pepper in the coating for this Louisiana-style fried chicken: White pepper, black pepper, and cayenne. Oh, and plenty of Tabasco in the marinade. [GET THE RECIPE]
Nashville Hot Fried Chicken—From Nashville, Tenn.
Some folks bite into this impossibly spicy fried chicken tentatively, but we suggest diving in with reckless abandon. Your lips will quickly go numb—so be sure to serve it with our Basic Creamy Coleslaw recipe. [GET THE RECIPE]
Barberton Fried Chicken—From Barberton, Ohio
A coating based on crisp panko-style bread crumbs gives this Ohio original a unique crunch; minimal extras in the seasoning puts the focus on the juicy, tender chicken meat. [GET THE RECIPE]
Shop Smart
The Complete Cook's Country TV Cookbook, 14th Anniversary Edition
In celebration of the diverse and delicious dishes originating across the U.S., we’ve compiled some of our favorite recipes for you to cook along with the cast of the hit TV show Cook’s Country. With plenty of new-to-you takes on old favorites plus flavorful dishes you may never have heard of, there's so much to be discovered within this comprehensive cookbook.Save 43% Now
If you’re looking for more juicy, delicious fried chicken recipes we’ve got you covered.