Chicken Fried Chicken
Easy and delicious, this Chicken Fried Chicken is a quick and flavorful dinnertime recipe that brings the whole family to the table. With minimal ingredients, it’s a simple and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe stands out for its crispy texture and savory gravy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy gravy delights both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples needed, it’s easy to whip up on short notice.
- Comfort Food Classic: This recipe brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your dining table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and ensure that your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving even cooking and perfect crispiness in your chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing your flour mixture and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your batter.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Ideal for safely flipping the chicken during frying without losing its coating.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6-8 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbs hot sauce
For Frying and Gravy
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt & pepper
How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove (a few inches deep) to 325°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until smooth.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture first. Then dip into the egg mixture before returning it to the flour mixture. Press down firmly so that the flour adheres well to each piece of chicken.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry on each side for about 3–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all pieces of chicken.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
In a large pan, add about 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying. Heat over medium-high heat. Stir in your extra flour until absorbed; cook for about 1 minute.
Step 7: Add Milk
Slowly add in milk while whisking to blend. Continue heating until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve
Pour gravy over individual servings of chicken before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Serving Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. You can elevate this comforting dish with sides or sauces that complement its rich flavors.
With Creamy Gravy
- Pour the homemade gravy over each piece of chicken just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes
- Serve your chicken on a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to absorb all the delicious gravy.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair your Chicken Fried Chicken with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish.
In a Sandwich
- Create a hearty sandwich using two slices of bread, adding lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a delightful twist on the classic.
With Corn on the Cob
- Enjoy this dish alongside sweet corn on the cob for a classic Southern touch that complements its flavors.
Drizzled with Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy a kick, add a drizzle of hot sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
To make sure your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips. They will help you achieve that crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Use Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
- Double Dredging: For an extra-crispy coating, dredge the chicken in flour twice before frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your oil at 325°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy chicken.
- Let It Rest: Allow your fried chicken to rest on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
- Season Each Layer: Don’t forget to season each layer; add salt and pepper to the flour mixture for tasty results.
- Cook in Batches: Fry in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding which can drop the oil temperature.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Fried Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in tangy mayo or vinaigrette adds crunch.
- Green Beans – Steamed or sautéed green beans provide color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
- Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.
- Fried Okra – This Southern staple offers a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with fried chicken.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese – A creamy mac and cheese side adds comfort and richness to your meal.
- Potato Salad – Chilled potato salad brings a cooling contrast to hot fried chicken while adding heartiness.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread balances out savory flavors and adds another layer of Southern charm.
- Cucumber Salad – Lightly dressed cucumber salad provides freshness and cuts through the richness of fried foods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook small details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the Buttermilk: Not using buttermilk can lead to a dry chicken. Make sure to soak your chicken in buttermilk for added moisture and flavor.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken. Fry in batches for a better texture.
- Inconsistent Flour Coating: Failing to dredge properly can cause uneven breading. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for a crispy finish.
- Ignoring Oil Temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 325°F.
- Rushing the Gravy: Not allowing the gravy to thicken can result in a runny sauce. Stir slowly and wait for it to reach your desired consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
- Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen Chicken Fried Chicken can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and warm each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Fried Chicken:
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a Southern comfort food where fried chicken is served with creamy gravy, offering both flavor and satisfaction.
How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, double dredge your chicken by coating it in flour twice before frying.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, while breast meat is traditional, thighs or drumsticks work well too! Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Chicken?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans that complement this hearty dish wonderfully.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your hot sauce is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is not only easy but also incredibly delicious. Its comforting flavors make it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides. Enjoy this versatile dish that everyone will love!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden crust and topped with a rich, creamy gravy. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete dinner that is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 6–8 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbs hot sauce
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour for gravy
- 2 cups milk
- Salt & pepper for gravy
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 325°F.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until smooth.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, then return to the flour to ensure even coating.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown on each side (about 3–5 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- For gravy, use reserved frying oil to cook extra flour; gradually add milk and whisk until thickened.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
