Authentic Southern Fried Chicken. Key To Winning QSRs.


No other cuisine is more successful in the QSR space than good ole southern fried chicken. As proof, a recent report issued by QSR magazine of chains with the highest average unit volume lists Chick-fil-A #1 and Raising Cane’s #2.


Several factors contribute to this surge in popularity. Notably, the rising cost of beef has led QSR operators to seek more affordable protein alternatives, with chicken the preferred choice. The consumption of chicken products, including sandwiches, wings, nuggets, and strips, at quick-service restaurants has increased by 11% since 2019, with a 2% year-over-year rise in the 12 months ending October 2024 according to a Washington Post article.


Whether you are a burger chain struggling with rising costs, or you have already planted your flag as a “chicken chain", you know the competition is fierce and the stakes are high. Serving the authentic flavor of your fried chicken is a critical factor. All the more reason to choose an authentic southern miller for your chicken breading.

The versatility of fried chicken is how some of America’s most successful chains continue to thrive.


House Autry helped to define the flavor of southern fried chicken for more than 200 years from its North Carolina mill. The use of a special blend of spices has made House Autry the choice of some of America’s most respected and profitable QSR chains because of its flavor. House Autry also works with chains to tweak a unique southern breading that they can call their own.

This Datassential heat map shows a national index of foodservice operators menuing “Southern Fried Chicken” in darkest green, with Vermont indexing the highest, just ahead of Connecticut, Nevada and Minnesota.


House Autry’s formulas make prep easy and more affordable. For example, House Autry’s Pre-Dip Batter Mix eliminates the need for high-cost eggs or milk to first moisten fresh chicken before breading. The Pre-Dip Batter Mix can also be used on veggies and other proteins before frying. House Autry Chicken Breaders are easy to use and double breading the chicken before frying can be an easy way for serving extra crispy chicken that can be a signature of your offering.


House Autry’s Pre-Dip Batter Mix eliminates the cost of eggs and milk in prepping fried chicken.

 

Spicing up your southern fried chicken is another signature opportunity. House Autry offers chicken breaders with the heat built in, eliminating the need to add dry seasoning in the prep and assuring consistency. Included in the assortment is a co-branded breader with Texas Pete®, a leading hot sauce provider well positioned as a southern brand.

House Autry offers you plenty of ways to serve a proper southern fried chicken and reap the rewards. Gain other insights into the importance of fried chicken and southern cuisine by downloading House Autry’s 2025 Southern Flavor Trends Guide. Contact a House Autry representative now, or request your free sample.