If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort and a touch of Southern charm, look no further than Chicken Fried Chicken. This delightful recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into crispy, golden-brown perfection, all topped with a creamy, savory gravy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that can transport you straight to a cozy kitchen filled with the warm aroma of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Chicken Fried Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken Fried Chicken

Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food with its crispy exterior and juicy center.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can whip this up.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with a side of mashed potatoes or greens, and you have a meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Versatile: Enjoy it on its own or as part of a sandwich or salad—it’s delicious in every form!
Perfect for Gatherings: Chicken Fried Chicken is great for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for hearty, satisfying fare.

What’s in the Bowl

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The stars of the show, providing a juicy and tender base.
1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken while giving it a tangy flavor.
1 large egg: Helps bind the flour mixture to the chicken, creating that irresistible crispy coating.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for the breading process, giving the chicken its crunch.
1 cup cornstarch: This ingredient helps achieve that light, airy texture in the crust.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and savory notes to the breading.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: A classic seasoning for a little kick.
1 teaspoon white pepper: Offers a subtler heat and contributes to the overall flavor profile.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Necessary for achieving that perfect crispy crust.
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick): A key ingredient for making a rich, creamy gravy.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the gravy, giving it a smooth texture.
2 cups whole milk: Creates a luscious gravy that complements the chicken beautifully.
Kosher salt (to taste): For seasoning the gravy to perfection.
Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds flavor and a bit of spice to the gravy.

Gear Checklist

Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the breading.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To flatten the chicken breasts for even cooking.
Frying pan or deep skillet: Essential for frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
Cooking thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
Wire rack: For draining excess oil after frying, keeping the chicken crispy.
Saucepan: To prepare the delicious gravy.

How to Prepare Chicken Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about ½ inch thick. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also makes it more tender.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and the egg. Whisk them together until well blended. Add the flattened chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderness into the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and white pepper. This seasoned flour mixture will give the chicken its delicious crispy coating.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan or deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s time to fry!

Step 5: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides well. Shake off any excess flour and set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to work in batches. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Gravy

In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the ½ cup of all-purpose flour until smooth. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Make It Fit Your Plan

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch.
Healthier Option: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version.
Add Vegetables: Serve with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick.

Mistakes That Ruin Chicken Fried Chicken

Skipping the marination: This is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
Not heating the oil properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Overcrowding the frying pan: This can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Not allowing the chicken to drain: Letting the fried chicken sit on a wire rack is essential for maintaining its crispy texture.

Best Ways to Store

Leftover Chicken Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For freezing, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag, where it will keep for up to 3 months.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

While buttermilk adds a unique flavor and tenderness, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic its acidity.

What can I serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with biscuits for a true Southern feast!

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

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Ready to Cook?

With this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to your dining table. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills. Once you take that first bite of crispy, flavorful chicken smothered in rich gravy, you’ll understand why this classic dish is beloved by so many. Happy cooking!