Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever walked past the deli counter at Publix, you’ve probably been lured in by the irresistible aroma of their golden fried chicken. 

The Publix Fried Chicken Recipe is a beloved Southern staple, known for its perfectly crispy crust and succulent, juicy meat inside. 

It’s the kind of comfort food that brings families together and elevates any meal.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply craving something nostalgic and delicious, this recipe captures that same Publix flavor at home—with a homemade touch. 

We’ve reverse-engineered the taste and texture to get as close as possible while making it easy enough for any home cook to tackle. 

Plus, with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe offers convenience without compromising flavor. Let’s dive into how you can recreate the legendary Publix Fried Chicken Recipe in your own kitchen.

When I First Tried Publix Fried Chicken…

I still remember the first time I bit into a piece of Publix Fried Chicken—the crunch echoed in my ears, followed by a burst of juicy flavor that was simply unforgettable. 

It wasn’t just good; it was better than most restaurant chicken. That experience sparked my curiosity to master the Publix Fried Chicken Recipe at home, and after several trials, this version nails it.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowls
• Cast iron skillet or deep fryer
• Meat thermometer
• Wire rack with baking sheet
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Whisk

Ingredients List

For the Marinade:

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) or 3 lbs chicken drumsticks/thighs

For the Flour Dredge:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable or peanut oil (enough for deep frying)

Publix Fried Chicken Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully submerged.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step is key for juicy meat that mimics the Publix Fried Chicken Recipe.

Step 2:

Prepare the Dredge: In another bowl, whisk together all the dredge ingredients. This seasoned flour mix creates the crispy coating we all love.

Step 3:

Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mix, pressing the flour firmly to help it stick. Place coated pieces on a wire rack and let them rest for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4:

Heat the Oil: In a cast iron skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to 325°F (163°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Step 5:

Fry the Chicken: Working in batches, fry the chicken for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.

Step 6:

Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Enjoy your homemade Publix Fried Chicken Recipe masterpiece!

Tips For Success

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Overnight marination is best to tenderize the chicken and deepen flavor.
• Use a Thermometer: Always check oil and meat temperature for the perfect crunch and doneness.
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: For a thicker crust, dredge, rest, and dredge again.
• Rest Before Frying: Letting the coated chicken sit helps the crust adhere better.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and crisp results.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the flour for a fiery version.
2. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and rice flour mix for a lighter crust.
3. Buttermilk Substitute: Use plain yogurt thinned with milk if buttermilk is unavailable.
4. Oven-Fried Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased rack for 35–40 minutes for a healthier option.
5. Air Fryer Friendly: Lightly spray dredged chicken with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Conclusion

Recreating the iconic Publix Fried Chicken Recipe at home is easier than you think—and just as satisfying.

With a few pantry staples and the right technique, you can serve up crispy, juicy chicken that rivals the deli counter favorite. 

Whether it’s for a family dinner or Sunday picnic, this homemade classic will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

Can I freeze leftover Publix-style fried chicken?

Yes, once cooled, you can freeze leftover Publix Fried Chicken Recipe portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

How do I store leftover fried chicken properly?

Place leftovers from your Publix Fried Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.

Is the Publix Fried Chicken Recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The original Publix Fried Chicken Recipe is not overly spicy, making it a favorite for kids and picky eaters alike.

You can always reduce the seasoning slightly if needed.

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