Copycat Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Ever bitten into a piece of Publix Fried Chicken and felt like time just paused for a second? Yeah, same here. There’s something about that crispy, golden skin and juicy bite that tastes like home—like a weekend treat you didn’t know you needed. I still remember grabbing a box on my way to the beach once; the sun, the sand, and that chicken made it unforgettable.

If you’re a fried chicken lover, you might also enjoy trying out this Jamaican fried chicken for a flavorful twist. In this post, I’ll show you how to recreate that same Publix magic right in your own kitchen—no secret deli access needed. Ready to fry up some comfort? Let’s get into it.

What Makes Publix Fried Chicken So Special?

There’s something magical about biting into Publix Fried Chicken. It’s not just crispy—it’s the kind of crunch that makes your ears perk up. The chicken inside? Juicy, tender, and full of bold, Southern-style flavor. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just feed your stomach—it feeds your soul.

What really makes it stand out is the balance. It’s not too salty, not too greasy, and always fresh. Whether it’s game night, a lazy weekend, or a family picnic, Publix fried chicken fits the moment. People even search for the exact recipe for Publix fried chicken just to bring that same taste home. If you enjoy recreating comfort food classics, you might also love this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken for another homestyle favorite.

Ingredients for Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Making that signature Publix Fried Chicken at home doesn’t mean you need fancy stuff. Just a handful of everyday ingredients—and a little love—go a long way. This copycat version sticks to basics but delivers all the crunch and flavor you’re craving.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken pieces (bone-in thighs, drumsticks, breasts—your pick)
• Buttermilk (for tender, juicy meat)
• All-purpose flour (for that golden coating)
• Cornstarch (adds an extra crispy finish)
• Salt & black pepper
• Paprika (a smoky touch)
• Garlic powder and onion powder
• Cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a bit of kick)
• Oil for frying (peanut or canola works best)

That’s it—no secret powders or hard-to-find spices. This is your base for a truly comforting recipe for Publix fried chicken that tastes homemade and heartwarming.

Equipment and Tools

You don’t need fancy tools to make Publix Fried Chicken at home. Just grab:

• A large bowl
• Tongs
• A deep pan or Dutch oven
• A wire rack or paper towels
• A meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

Cooking Time and Serving People

Making Publix Fried Chicken at home takes about:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Marinating time: 1 hour (for best flavor)
• Cooking time: 15 per batch
• Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is. Perfect for a family dinner—or leftovers you’ll be happy to have.

How to Make Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Making Publix Fried Chicken at home is easier than you think. Just follow these steps and get ready for some serious crispy magic.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken: Start by rinsing and patting your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures crispy skin later. Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and texture—just like Publix does.

Step 2: Marinate for Juiciness: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce (if you like a little heat). Place the chicken in the bowl, making sure each piece is coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour for a deeper flavor and extra tenderness.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Mix: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a small pinch of cayenne. The cornstarch is the secret to that crispy, flaky crust we all love. Stir well so the spices are evenly spread.

Step 4: Dredge and Coat: Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing down so the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, you can double-dip: back into the buttermilk, then into the flour again.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. You’re aiming for 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken pieces in, a few at a time—don’t overcrowd the pan.

Fry each batch for about 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) when done.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving: Place the cooked chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes—this keeps the coating crisp and gives the juices time to settle.

Creative Serving Ideas for Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Now that you’ve nailed the perfect Publix Fried Chicken, it’s time to serve it like a pro. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a weekend feast, how you plate it can turn a simple meal into something memorable. Here are some delicious and fun ways to enjoy your crispy masterpiece:

1. Classic Southern-Style Dinner: Pair your chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, buttery biscuits, and a side of coleslaw. Add some sweet tea, and you’ve got a Southern Sunday plate that feels like a warm hug.

2. Chicken and Waffles Twist: Want something sweet and savory? Serve your fried chicken over fluffy waffles, drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey butter, and top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and definitely brunch-worthy.

3. Picnic Box Meal: Pack it cold with potato salad, deviled eggs, and iced lemonade. Publix-style fried chicken tastes amazing even at room temperature, making it perfect for road trips or park days.

4. Fried Chicken Sandwiches: Use leftover chicken to make hearty sandwiches. Toasted brioche buns, lettuce, pickles, and a swipe of spicy mayo turn this into a lunch to remember. Want to get fancy? Add coleslaw right inside the bun. And if you’re looking for the perfect Southern-style side dish to go with it, try this Southern Fried Cabbage —it’s simple, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.

5. Game Day Platter: Cut your chicken into smaller pieces or use tenders to create a party platter. Add dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard on the side. This also works well if you’re trying out the Publix chicken tenders recipe version.

6. International Fusion: lice the chicken and use it in tacos with cabbage slaw and a spicy lime crema, or serve with garlic fried rice and a chili dipping sauce for a Filipino-style twist.

Cookupp Community Tips for Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Sometimes the best cooking secrets don’t come from recipe books—they come from real people in real kitchens. That’s exactly what we love about the Cookupp community. Home cooks, food lovers, and fried chicken fans from all walks of life have shared their personal tips to make this Publix Fried Chicken recipe even better.

1. Let the Buttermilk Do Its Magic: Many community members swear by an overnight soak in buttermilk. While 1–4 hours is great, letting it marinate overnight makes the chicken incredibly tender. The acidity in the buttermilk breaks down the proteins gently, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat with every bite.

2. Add a Touch of Sugar to the Flour Mix: Here’s a trick that adds depth without making it sweet: sprinkle just a teaspoon of sugar into your flour and spice blend. It helps balance out the saltiness and enhances the browning of the crust. Several home chefs say this gives that extra “Publix flavor” kick.

3. Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For those who love a thick, craggy crust, double dipping is key. Dredge the marinated chicken in flour, dip it back into the buttermilk, and then coat it again in flour. The result? A crispy, textured coating that stays crunchy even after hours.

4. Let It Rest Before Frying: After dredging, let your coated chicken sit on a rack or plate for 10–15 minutes before frying. This step allows the coating to set, which helps prevent it from falling off during frying and gives a more even, golden crisp.

5. Mix up the Seasonings: Some Cookupp contributors like to personalize the spice mix. Suggestions include a pinch of celery salt for that deli-style zing, smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or even a little ground mustard. Feel free to tweak to match your taste buds.

6. Don’t Rush the Oil Temperature: One common tip: Patience is everything. Make sure your oil stays around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too cold, and the chicken absorbs oil and turns greasy. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of bread—it should sizzle and turn golden in about 60 seconds.

7. Air Fryer Alternative for a Lighter Version: Trying to cut back on oil? Some community members have successfully adapted this into an air fryer version. Lightly spray-coated chicken with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture isn’t the same, but it’s a lighter, still-satisfying option.

8. Use Leftover Coating for Tenders or Wings: Have leftover flour mix? Don’t toss it! A few users recommend using it for making Publix chicken tenders or wings later in the week. You can store the flour blend in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Publix Fried Chicken Nutrition and Calories

Let’s be real—Publix Fried Chicken isn’t exactly diet food, but it’s totally worth the treat. One piece (like a drumstick) has about:

• 250–300 calories
• 18–20g protein
• 14–18g fat
• 8–12g carbs
• 400–600mg sodium

If you bake or air fry it, you’ll cut the fat and calories by up to 40%, while still keeping the flavor. Want to make it healthier? Try low-fat buttermilk, skip the skin, or serve it with a salad instead of fries.

Enjoy it guilt-free—just in the right portions!

How to Store Leftover Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep your fried chicken fresh, crispy, and ready for round two.

Refrigerator Storage

• Cool it first: Let the chicken cool completely at room temperature.
• Wrap or containerize: Store in an airtight container or wrap each piece in foil.
• Shelf life: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat right: Use an oven or air fryer to reheat—this helps keep the crust crispy.

Freezer Storage (Longer-Term)

• Wrap it well: Wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Use freezer-safe bags: Place wrapped pieces into a zip-lock freezer bag or an airtight container.
• Label it: Add the date so you don’t forget when you froze it.
• Storage time: Best used within 2 months for flavor and texture.
• Reheat tips: Bake or air fry from frozen at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or thaw overnight for quicker cooking.

FAQs about Publix Fried Chicken Recipe

Got questions about making Publix Fried Chicken at Home at home? Don’t worry! Here are answers to common beginner questions to help you nail this crispy, juicy recipe.

Can I bake Publix fried chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake it! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for 30–35 minutes. Flip halfway through for even crispiness. It won’t be quite as crunchy as fried, but it’s a healthier option that still tastes great.

How do I store leftover fried chicken?

Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or wrap it in foil. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep it crispy, reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave. Always avoid storing while it’s still warm, as that can trap steam and make it soggy.

Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?

Absolutely! Spray the coated chicken lightly with oil, then cook in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get a crispy texture with much less oil, making it a healthier alternative that still captures the flavor and crunch of traditional Publix Fried Chicken.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No buttermilk? No problem. Mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it curdles slightly—this works just like buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and help the coating stick. You can also use plain yogurt thinned with a bit of water.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check if the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the center—there should be no pink, and juices should run clear. The crust should be golden brown and crispy, and the chicken should feel firm when pressed lightly.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work great. They cook faster—usually around 8–10 minutes per side when frying. Just be careful not to overcook them, especially breasts, which can dry out quickly. Boneless versions are great for sandwiches or a Publix chicken tenders recipe twist.

How can I make my fried chicken spicier?

To dial up the heat, increase the cayenne pepper in your flour mix or add chili powder or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. You can also dust the cooked chicken with extra spice or serve it with a spicy dipping sauce. Adjust spice levels gradually to match your heat tolerance.

Can I freeze Publix Fried Chicken?

Yes, Publix Fried Chicken freezes well. Let it cool fully, wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap, and then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F to restore crispiness—avoid microwaving as it can turn the coating soggy.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken?

Peanut oil and canola oil are top picks. They have high smoke points and a neutral flavor, which lets the seasoning in your Publix Fried Chicken shine. Vegetable oil also works well. Avoid olive oil or butter—they burn too quickly and can affect the taste and crispiness.

How do I avoid soggy fried chicken?

For crispy results, make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C), don’t overcrowd the pan, and always drain fried chicken on a wire rack—not paper towels. Let the coating rest before frying so it sticks better. And never cover hot fried chicken—it traps steam and softens the crust.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Publix Fried Chicken has a loyal fan base—it’s the perfect mix of crispy, juicy, and comforting. And now, you’ve got everything you need to bring that same flavor home. From simple ingredients to expert tips, this copycat recipe makes it easy for anyone to recreate the magic. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just craving something delicious, homemade fried chicken never disappoints.

The best part? You can tweak the seasoning, choose your cooking method, and even serve it your way. So grab that apron, heat the oil (or air fryer), and let the aroma of golden fried goodness fill your kitchen. You’re not just making a meal—you’re making a memory. Have questions or feedback? We’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to follow Cookupp on Pinterest for a delicious mix of inspiring recipes you’ll want to try again and again!