There’s something magical about sitting down to a plate of Chicken Fried Chicken—a dish that practically embodies comfort on a plate. The crispy golden crust, the tender, juicy chicken inside, and that luscious, creamy gravy poured over the top all work together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. For many, this dish brings back cherished memories of Sunday dinners with family, where the air was filled with the smell of sizzling chicken and laughter echoed through the house. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition.
Chicken Fried Chicken has its roots in Southern cooking, a region known for taking simple ingredients and transforming them into meals brimming with love and flavor. Unlike its close cousin, Chicken Fried Steak, this recipe skips the beef in favor of tender chicken breasts. It’s a dish that has graced potlucks, family gatherings, and cozy weeknight dinners alike, proving time and again that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
What I love most about this recipe is how accessible it is. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and it doesn’t require fancy equipment or techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you can whip up this dish with confidence. Plus, the way this dish fills your home with the mouthwatering aroma of fried chicken and freshly made gravy is enough to bring everyone to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Kid-Friendly: This is the kind of meal that makes everyone happy, from picky toddlers to hungry teenagers.
- Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and the instructions are straightforward.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for a cozy dinner when you’re craving something indulgent.
- Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings or spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, Chicken Fried Chicken always hits the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Country Gravy:
- 1/4 cup of the frying oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Coatings
Start by setting up a breading station. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This blend of dry ingredients ensures your chicken will fry up crispy and flavorful. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce (if you like a little kick).
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, pressing it in to ensure an even coating. Then, submerge the floured chicken into the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, return the chicken to the flour mixture for a second coating—this double-dredge technique is the secret to that perfect crispy crust.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F. You can test the oil by dropping in a pinch of the flour mixture—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F is ideal). Remove the chicken and let it rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Country Gravy
In the same skillet, reserve about 1/4 cup of the frying oil. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The gravy should be rich and smooth, the perfect complement to your crispy chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Place the chicken on a plate and generously ladle the gravy over the top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
Helpful Tips:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Don’t Skip the Rack: Letting the fried chicken rest on a wire rack keeps it crispy by preventing steam from softening the crust.
- Warm Your Gravy: If the gravy cools while you’re finishing the chicken, gently reheat it and whisk to restore its creamy texture.
- Customize Your Seasonings: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne to the flour mixture for a smoky, spicy kick.
Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They’re naturally juicier and just as delicious.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To maintain the crispiness, reheat leftover chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F until heated through.
- Gravy Storage: Keep the gravy in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
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Conclusion
Chicken Fried Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. From the satisfying crunch of the crust to the velvety richness of the gravy, every bite is a testament to the joy of home cooking. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, this dish never fails to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat your family (or yourself!) to this Southern classic. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Homestyle Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy
Description
There’s something magical about sitting down to a plate of Chicken Fried Chicken—a dish that practically embodies comfort on a plate. The crispy golden crust, the tender, juicy chicken inside, and that luscious, creamy gravy poured over the top all work together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. For many, this dish brings back cherished memories of Sunday dinners with family, where the air was filled with the smell of sizzling chicken and laughter echoed through the house. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition.
Chicken Fried Chicken has its roots in Southern cooking, a region known for taking simple ingredients and transforming them into meals brimming with love and flavor. Unlike its close cousin, Chicken Fried Steak, this recipe skips the beef in favor of tender chicken breasts. It’s a dish that has graced potlucks, family gatherings, and cozy weeknight dinners alike, proving time and again that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
What I love most about this recipe is how accessible it is. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and it doesn’t require fancy equipment or techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you can whip up this dish with confidence. Plus, the way this dish fills your home with the mouthwatering aroma of fried chicken and freshly made gravy is enough to bring everyone to the table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Country Gravy:
- 1/4 cup of the frying oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coatings
Start by setting up a breading station. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This blend of dry ingredients ensures your chicken will fry up crispy and flavorful. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce (if you like a little kick).
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, pressing it in to ensure an even coating. Then, submerge the floured chicken into the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, return the chicken to the flour mixture for a second coating—this double-dredge technique is the secret to that perfect crispy crust.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F. You can test the oil by dropping in a pinch of the flour mixture—if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F is ideal). Remove the chicken and let it rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Country Gravy
In the same skillet, reserve about 1/4 cup of the frying oil. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The gravy should be rich and smooth, the perfect complement to your crispy chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Place the chicken on a plate and generously ladle the gravy over the top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
Notes
For the best results, ensure your oil maintains a steady temperature of 325°F throughout the frying process. If it gets too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken may absorb excess oil and turn greasy. Also, feel free to double the gravy recipe if you like extra sauce—it’s always a hit!
