BEST SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN EVER! Carolinas vs.Tennessee
Published -
- July 23, 2019
- 11:00 pm
Driving to Seattle from New York, I drove through the Carolinas and Tennessee, where I stuffed my face with Southern Fried Chicken.
The last place I went to may just be the BEST fried chicken I have ever had!
What are some defining characteristics of Carolina-style fried chicken?
When it comes to Southern fried chicken, there are two states that consistently stand out: the Carolinas and Tennessee. The debate over which state makes the best Southern fried chicken has been ongoing for years, but it’s clear that both states have a deep passion for this crispy, flavorful dish.
Let’s start with the Carolinas, which are home to what many would consider to be the quintessential Southern-style fried chicken. The Carolinas have a rich history of barbecue and soul food, and their fried chicken is no exception. One of the defining characteristics of Carolina-style fried chicken is that it’s typically made with whole chickens that have been cut up into pieces, then coated in a buttermilk, flour, and seasoning mixture before being fried to crispy perfection. The result is a chicken that’s juicy and crispy on the outside, with a tender and flavorful interior.
But what makes Carolina-style fried chicken truly unique is the use of particular seasonings and spices. Many Carolina-style fried chicken recipes call for a blend of spices that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and other herbs and spices. This gives the chicken its signature flavor and makes it stand out from other styles of Southern fried chicken.
On the other side of the debate, Tennessee is also known for its delicious fried chicken. What sets Tennessee-style fried chicken apart is the use of a slightly different coating mixture. Many Tennessee-style fried chicken recipes call for a mixture of flour and cornmeal, which gives the chicken a nice crunch and a slightly sweeter flavor. Tennessee-style chicken is also typically seasoned with fewer herbs and spices than Carolina-style chicken, allowing the natural flavor of the chicken to shine through.
One of the things that many people love about Tennessee-style fried chicken is that it’s often served with hot sauce or honey, which gives the chicken a spicy or sweet kick. This combination of flavors is truly irresistible and makes Tennessee-style fried chicken a favorite of many Southern food lovers.
So, who makes the best Southern fried chicken? Well, that’s really up to personal preference. Both Carolina-style and Tennessee-style fried chicken have their own unique characteristics and are beloved by many. Some people prefer the bold and spicy flavors of Carolina-style chicken, while others find the sweet and crunchy taste of Tennessee-style chicken to be more appealing.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which style of Southern fried chicken you prefer. But one thing’s for sure – no matter which state you’re in, you’re sure to find some of the best fried chicken you’ve ever had. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a plate of delicious Southern fried chicken, whether it’s from the Carolinas or from Tennessee!
