Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Chicken Fried Chicken recipe! This Southern classic features tender, juicy chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned, crispy golden crust, all topped with a rich and creamy homemade gravy. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen!
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Why Chicken Fried Chicken is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Regarding Southern comfort food, few dishes can compete with Chicken Fried Chicken. This crispy, juicy, savory meal is loved for its satisfying crunch and hearty flavor. It’s a family favorite and is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. If you want to recreate this Southern staple in your kitchen, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the frying technique to ensure that your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out golden, delicious, and irresistible.
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a dish inspired by the well-known Southern classic, chicken-fried steak. Instead of beef, this recipe uses tender chicken breasts that are battered and fried to crispy perfection. The breaded coating, seasoned to add flavor, and the creamy, rich country gravy served on top make this dish comforting and deeply satisfying.
This dish is perfect when you want the crispy texture of fried chicken without the bones, and it’s often served with popular Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken
Using high-quality ingredients and fresh spices is critical for perfect Chicken Fried Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need: Chicken-Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 6-8 thin-sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- One egg
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- Oil for frying
Gravy:
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 325°F, adding enough to be a few inches deep.
- Make the Coating: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Prepare the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce, mixing until smooth.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each piece of chicken by dipping it first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk mixture, and back in the flour. Press the flour firmly onto the chicken to ensure a thick, crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat for all pieces.
- Make the Gravy: Heat 1/4 cup of the reserved frying oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens—season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Pour the gravy over each chicken piece before serving.
Notes:
- You can use a deep fryer or skillet based on your preference for frying.
- If you prefer not to use frying oil for the gravy, substitute with butter or bacon grease.
- Use thin-sliced chicken breasts, or slice regular breasts in half for thinner pieces.
- Adjust seasoning to taste in both the flour mixture and gravy.
Nutrition:
Calories: 490 kcal | Carbs: 45g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 114 mg | Sodium: 869 mg | Potassium: 809 mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 304 IU | Vitamin C: 3 mg | Calcium: 235 mg | Iron: 3 mg
Nutrition is an estimate and may vary with ingredient brands.
How to Make Creamy Country Gravy for Chicken Fried Chicken
A rich, creamy country gravy takes this dish to the next level. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Create the Roux:
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s foamy.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute, or until golden and smooth, to remove any raw flour taste.
Step 2: Add the Milk:
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Season to Taste:
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and pour the gravy into a serving bowl. Keep it warm until you’re ready to serve.
Serving Chicken Fried Chicken
Once the chicken and gravy are ready, serve each piece of Chicken Fried Chicken with a generous spoonful of the creamy country gravy. This dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a pat of butter or a drizzle of gravy make a delicious complement.
- Green Beans: Simple, lightly seasoned green beans bring a fresh balance to the richness of the chicken.
- Cornbread: This Southern staple adds sweetness to the savory chicken.
- Mac and Cheese: For an extra indulgent meal, serve Chicken Fried Chicken with creamy mac and cheese.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
To help you achieve restaurant-quality Chicken Fried Chicken, keep these tips in mind:
Use Fresh Oil for Frying:
Fresh oil ensures the chicken doesn’t pick up burnt or bitter flavors and helps the coating fry to a consistent golden color.
Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Marination:
The buttermilk soak tenderizes the chicken, adds flavor, and helps the breading stick better. It’s worth the extra step!
Use a Thermometer:
For both the oil and the chicken, using a thermometer helps you maintain the perfect frying temperature and ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature without drying out.
Rest Before Serving:
Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes to drain excess oil and retain its crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Fried Chicken
Can I Make Chicken Fried Chicken with Chicken Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and bring extra juiciness to the dish. Just pound them to an even thickness and follow the same breading and frying steps.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chicken Fried Chicken?
To retain the crispy texture, reheat Chicken-Fried Chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.
Can I Make Chicken Fried Chicken Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s suitable for frying to achieve a crispy coating.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 600 per serving
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 30g
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken_Fried Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of true Southern comfort. The crispy exterior, juicy interior, and creamy gravy make each bite a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe brings joy and satisfaction. Try making this delicious Southern classic home and enjoy the warmth and flavor of a traditional Chicken_Fried_Chicken meal!