Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Craving crispy, golden fried chicken but want a simplified version that delivers maximum flavor and crunch? Look no further than this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe! This Southern classic is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust. Paired with creamy gravy, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you're in the mood for an indulgent meal. Follow this guide for step-by-step instructions on how to make the best chicken fried chicken, plus tips and variations to customize the recipe to your liking.

What Is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken fried chicken is a mouth-watering Southern dish made by coating chicken breasts in a seasoned flour mixture, frying them until crispy, and serving them with creamy gravy. It’s similar to chicken fried steak but uses chicken instead of beef. The result is a plate of comfort food heaven: crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor. The creamy white gravy served alongside (or on top) is the perfect complement to this dish, balancing the rich, crispy chicken with a smooth, savory sauce.

Ingredients List for Chicken Fried Chicken

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious dish at home:

For the Chicken:

1. Chicken breasts (4 large, boneless, skinless) – The star of the dish, pounded thin for even cooking.
2. Buttermilk (1 ½ cups) – Tenderizes the chicken and adds tangy flavor.
3. Eggs (2 large) – Helps the flour mixture stick to the chicken.
4. All-purpose flour (2 cups) – The base for the crispy coating.
5. Cornstarch (¼ cup) – Adds extra crispiness to the coating.
6. Paprika (1 tbsp) – Adds flavor and color.
7. Garlic powder (1 tsp) – For an extra layer of savory flavor.
8. Onion powder (1 tsp) – Another seasoning that adds depth.
9. Cayenne pepper (½ tsp) – For a hint of heat (optional).
10. Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning both the flour mixture and the chicken.
11. Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying) – Use an oil with a high smoke point for frying.

For the Creamy Gravy:

1. Butter (3 tbsp) – For making the gravy base.
2. All-purpose flour (3 tbsp) – To thicken the gravy.
3. Milk (2 cups) – Creates a creamy, smooth gravy.
4. Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Season to taste for the gravy.

Optional Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken

If you want to elevate your chicken fried chicken experience, here are a few optional ingredients you can add:

1. Hot sauce (to taste) – For a spicy kick.
2. Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) – For garnishing and adding fresh flavor.
3. Lemon wedges – Squeeze over the chicken for a bright, tangy contrast.

Substitutions and Variations

There are many ways to customize your chicken fried chicken based on dietary preferences or flavor variations. Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free. You can also use almond flour or rice flour as alternatives for the coating.
• Spicy version: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicier take on this dish.
• Oven-baked chicken fried chicken: For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
• Air fryer method: You can also make this recipe in an air fryer for a lower-fat version. Cook the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making chicken fried chicken is easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to get that perfect crispy, juicy chicken on your plate.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about ½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. Season the mixture with a little salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce if you like a spicier flavor. Add the chicken breasts to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).

Step 3: Make the Flour Coating

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the flour mixture. In a shallow dish or pie plate, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and a generous amount of salt and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the flour.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let any excess drip off. Dredge the chicken breasts in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. For extra crispiness, you can repeat the process, dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again for a double coating.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach about 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

Step 6: Drain the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, use tongs to remove the breasts from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes while you prepare the gravy.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Gravy

In the same skillet or a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Cook the gravy for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

How to Cook Chicken Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a recap of the key steps to making chicken fried chicken:

1. Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness.
2. Marinate in buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the flour mixture with spices and cornstarch.
4. Coat the chicken in the flour mixture.
5. Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the chicken and let it rest.
7. Make the gravy by preparing a roux and adding milk to create a creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like chicken fried chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the quality of the final dish. Here’s what to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize it and infuses it with flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Overcrowding the pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature stays consistent, resulting in crispy, golden chicken.
• Not draining the chicken properly: Letting the chicken sit on paper towels or a wire rack after frying helps remove excess oil, preventing it from becoming soggy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your chicken fried chicken is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve and present it to make your meal even more appealing.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

• With mashed potatoes: Serve chicken fried chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes with gravy drizzled on top.
• On a biscuit: For a Southern twist, serve the chicken on a fluffy biscuit with a side of gravy.
• With collard greens or green beans: These classic Southern sides pair perfectly with the richness of the chicken and gravy.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a fresh, vibrant look to the plate.
• Serve family-style: Place the chicken on a large platter with sides and gravy in separate bowls for a beautiful family-style presentation.
• Rustic board: Serve the chicken on a wooden board with dipping bowls of gravy and hot sauce on the side.

Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prep and marinate the chicken a day in advance, making the actual cooking process quicker.
• Double-dip for extra crunch: If you want an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour before frying.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven: To keep the chicken crispy, reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well, and they tend to be juicier than breasts.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure to press the flour mixture onto the chicken firmly, and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere.

Can I make chicken fried chicken in an air fryer?
Yes! Coat the chicken as usual, then cook it in a preheated air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux when making the gravy.

Conclusion

Chicken fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, juicy, and absolutely delicious. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you’ll get perfect results every time, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion. The creamy gravy adds the finishing touch, making this dish a satisfying and indulgent meal. Try it out, and enjoy the rich, flavorful goodness of homemade chicken fried chicken!

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