
Hey, Welcome to the Publix Fried Chicken Recipe. Publix Fried Chicken is a crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned Southern-style fried chicken that everyone loves.
If you’ve ever had this at a family gathering or a festive dinner, you already know how crunchy and flavorful it is.
Guess what happened when I tried to replicate that at home? I did it perfectly! I’m going to share the simplest method for preparing this delicious food in your own kitchen today.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American, Southern
Category: Main Dish
History and Origin
Publix Fried Chicken is inspired by Southern American cooking traditions, where crispy fried chicken has been a weekend and holiday favorite.
Publix stores became famous for serving consistently juicy, flavorful fried chicken loved by families all over the United States.
What does Publix Fried Chicken taste like?
It is delightfully crispy on the outside with a juicy, tender interior. The seasoning brings a perfect blend of savory, peppery, and slightly salty flavors, giving you that comforting Southern homemade taste in every bite.
By the way, you can also try the Cicis Bavarian Dessert Pizza Recipe.
Publix Fried Chicken Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Publix Fried Chicken Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts) | 3 lbs |
| Buttermilk | 2 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Publix Fried Chicken Recipe:
- Large bowl
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Deep fryer or heavy pot
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Meat thermometer
How to Make Publix Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Clean and pat dry chicken pieces. Soak them in a buttermilk and egg mixture for at least 30 minutes to help achieve a juicy texture.
Step 2: Coat with Seasoned Flour
In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a saucepan or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F. Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the chicken.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Set the fried chicken on a wire rack above a baking sheet to allow any excess oil to drain. Serve warm and enjoy that Publix-style crunch.
Recipe Card

Publix Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean and pat dry chicken pieces. Soak them in a buttermilk and egg mixture for at least 30 minutes to help achieve a juicy texture.

- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly.

- In a saucepan or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F. Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the chicken.

- Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

- Set the fried chicken on a wire rack above a baking sheet to allow any excess oil to drain. Serve warm and enjoy that Publix-style crunch.

Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Publix Fried Chicken Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Cholesterol | 155mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Publix Fried Chicken Recipe with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, mac and cheese, or coleslaw.
Add a dipping sauce such as ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard. It’s also amazing with sweet tea for a comforting weekend family meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To keep the coating crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave. You can also freeze pieces for a quick meal later.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily switch up flavors to enjoy Publix-style chicken in new ways. Add lemon pepper for a tangy twist, or use hot sauce for a spicy kick.
You can even try different cuts like wings or tenders for fun meal options.
Best Dipping Sauces
Dipping sauces make your fried chicken experience even better. Try honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, or even a homemade spicy mayo.
They balance the crispy coating with creamy or tangy flavors, making every bite extra satisfying for both kids and adults.
Tips for Perfect Crispiness
Ensure your chicken’s coating sticks by pressing the flour mixture firmly onto the pieces. Keep the oil temperature steady and avoid overcrowding.
Let the fried chicken rest on a rack to drain, keeping the crust crunchy instead of soggy.
Meal Pairing Ideas
This Publix Fried Chicken Recipe pairs well with comfort sides like cornbread, collard greens, potato wedges, or mac and cheese.
You can also serve it with a fresh salad or fries for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies every craving around the table.
How to Serve for Parties
Publix Fried Chicken Recipe is a hit at gatherings, picnics, and game nights. Keep batches warm in the oven so everyone enjoys crispy bites.
Serve with dipping sauces and small sides so guests can enjoy buffet-style plates while having fun.
Why Buttermilk is Important
Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds a slight tangy flavor that enhances every bite.
It also creates a sticky surface that allows the flour coating to cling better, resulting in that signature crunchy Publix-style fried chicken texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people overcrowd the pan or fry at the wrong temperature. Both can ruin the crispiness.
Also, skipping seasoning in the flour leads to bland chicken. Follow each step properly to achieve that irresistible Publix crunch and juicy center.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you can enjoy that famous Publix Fried Chicken taste right at home. Crispy outside, juicy inside — it’s sure to become a family favorite.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. Please share this recipe with your loved ones and give it a 5-star rating at the conclusion of the FAQs section if you enjoy it!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes. It won’t be as crispy, but still delicious.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Double-dredge the chicken by dipping again in the flour mixture before frying.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce frying time to prevent overcooking.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, peanut, or canola oil works great for high-heat frying.
Can I marinate overnight?
Yes, longer marinating makes the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
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