Prairie Fried Chicken
From the heartland of South Dakota comes this honest, straightforward fried chicken that has fed generations of prairie families. Simple seasonings, quality farm-raised chicken, and time-tested technique create a dish that represents the best of Great Plains home cooking.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Brine the chicken: Combine buttermilk and salt. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the prairie flour: In a large paper bag, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Shake to mix well.
Bring to room temperature: Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before frying.
Heat the fat: Melt shortening or lard in a large cast iron skillet to 1.5 inches depth. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
Dredge the chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk. Add a few pieces at a time to the bag with flour and shake vigorously. Rest on wire rack 5 minutes.
Fry the chicken: Place pieces skin-side down in hot fat. Don't crowd. Fry 15-18 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F.
Check for doneness: The coating should be golden brown. Use a thermometer to verify internal temperature.
Drain and season: Transfer to a wire rack. Season immediately with salt while hot.
Rest briefly: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
Serve prairie style: Serve with mashed potatoes, cream gravy, fresh garden vegetables, and homemade rolls for a complete South Dakota farm meal.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Farm-raised chicken: If you can source chicken from a local South Dakota farm, the difference in flavor is remarkable.
- Lard for authenticity: Prairie families traditionally used lard rendered from their own pigs. It gives the best flavor.
- Simple seasoning: Prairie cooking is about letting quality ingredients shine. Don't over-complicate the seasoning.
- Cast iron is essential: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet passed down through generations is ideal.
- Make gravy: Use the drippings to make cream gravy - it's the traditional South Dakota accompaniment.
- Church supper staple: This chicken is perfect for potlucks and church suppers, served at room temperature.