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.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Family Favorite: It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it with mashed potatoes, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal that suits any gathering.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The crispy coating and rich gravy create a hearty dish that warms the soul.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples needed, this recipe is easy to whip up without special shopping trips.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this delectable Chicken Fried Chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
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: A deep fryer ensures even cooking while frying chicken. If using a pan, make sure it’s deep enough for safe frying.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients keeps your process organized.
- Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly, especially in creating the egg mixture and gravy.
Ingredients
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. Here’s what you need:
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
- Oil for frying
For the Gravy
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour
- 2 cup milk
- Salt & pepper
How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
Step 1: Heat Oil
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove (a few inches deep) to 325°F.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until smooth.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture. Then dip it into the egg mixture before returning it to the flour mixture. Make sure to press down firmly so the flour adheres well.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry on each side for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Once cooked, remove from oil and drain on paper towel-lined plates. Repeat with all chicken pieces.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
To make your gravy, add 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying into a large pan over medium-high heat. Stir in your flour until absorbed and cook for about 1 minute.
Step 7: Add Milk
Slowly add in your milk while whisking to blend everything together. Heat until thickened; then stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve
Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Chicken!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Serving Chicken Fried Chicken can be as creative as your imagination allows. This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces, making it a favorite at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
With Creamy Gravy
- Pour the homemade gravy generously over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the Chicken Fried Chicken on a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
In a Sandwich
- Place a piece of Chicken Fried Chicken between two slices of bread with some lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a hearty sandwich.
Accompanied by Coleslaw
- A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the fried chicken.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Serve alongside steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli for a colorful and nutritious plate.
How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
Perfecting your Chicken Fried Chicken involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Choose the right chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breasts cook evenly and fry perfectly golden without being dry.
- Use buttermilk: Marinating in buttermilk provides moisture and enhances flavor, resulting in juicy chicken.
- Don’t rush the frying: Frying at the correct temperature (325°F) ensures crispy skin without burning.
- Double-dip for crunch: Dredging twice in flour gives extra crunch; press firmly so it adheres well.
- Let it drain properly: Allow fried chicken to rest on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping it crispy.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your flour mixture before dredging to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Fried Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here’s a list of perfect companions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic; consider adding garlic or cheese for extra flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory chicken perfectly—grill or boil it for simplicity.
- Biscuits: Flaky homemade biscuits are ideal for soaking up gravy; serve warm straight from the oven.
- Green Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers freshness that contrasts well with fried food.
- Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra adds Southern flair to your meal; it’s crunchy and delicious alongside chicken.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide comfort; they pair wonderfully with rich flavors of chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac ‘n’ cheese is always a hit, especially with kids—rich, cheesy goodness!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a touch of bitterness that balances out the richness beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not using enough oil – Ensure your frying oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken partially. This helps achieve an even golden brown color.
- Skipping the dredging process – Don’t rush the layering of flour and egg. Properly coating the chicken helps create that crispy crust you crave.
- Using cold chicken – Cold chicken will lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy results. Let the chicken come to room temperature before frying for the best results.
- Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to keep that perfect crispiness.
- Not seasoning enough – Season every layer, from the flour mixture to the gravy. A well-seasoned dish makes all the difference in flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Chicken Fried Chicken.
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a delicious dish that features breaded and fried chicken breasts served with creamy gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest.
How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken and double-dredge it in flour for an extra thick crust.
Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless thighs can be used for Chicken Fried Chicken if you prefer dark meat; just adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I customize my Chicken Fried Chicken recipe?
Feel free to add different seasonings or spices to your flour mixture or try using flavored buttermilk for added taste.
Final Thoughts
This easy and delicious Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its comforting flavors are sure to bring joy around your family table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it alongside mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal!
Chicken Fried Chicken
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy Chicken Fried Chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the whole family. In just 30 minutes, you can create juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy golden crust, all topped off with rich, homemade gravy. The minimal ingredients make it a hassle-free meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Whether served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Dive into this delightful recipe and enjoy a hearty meal that combines simplicity with flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6-8 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 egg
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 325°F.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture before returning to the flour for a double coating.
- Fry chicken pieces in hot oil for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For gravy, heat reserved frying oil in a pan, add flour until absorbed, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of Chicken Fried Chicken (150g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
