Southern fried rabbit with a crispy, seasoned crust is a country family tradition that's lean and high in protein. This rustic dish delivers tender, delicate meat with a satisfying golden crunch.
Marinate the rabbit pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator to tenderize and infuse flavor.
In a medium bowl, beat eggs. In a separate shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder; mix thoroughly.
Remove the rabbit from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dip each piece first in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Heat oil in a large, heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) to 350°F over medium heat. Add rabbit pieces without overcrowding. Fry for 6–8 minutes per side, adjusting heat to maintain steady bubbling and avoid burning the crust.
Carefully transfer fried rabbit to a rack or paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for optimal juiciness and a crisp crust.