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 a casual dinner or simply craving comfort food, this dish stands out with its crispy coating and rich gravy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a satisfying meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and flavorful, while the homemade gravy adds an extra layer of richness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this classic American dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or a fresh salad – it pairs well with many sides!
• Easy Cleanup: Using just a few pans means less time spent washing dishes after enjoying your delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Chicken Fried Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown color while frying.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution in both the chicken batter and gravy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ensures the right texture and flavor balance in your dish.

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
• Oil for frying

For the Gravy

• 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 until it reaches 325°F. Ensure there are a few inches of oil for proper frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together:
2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together:
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 egg
1 Tbs hot sauce

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture. Then dip it into the egg mixture before returning to the flour mixture. Make sure to press down so that the flour sticks well.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place chicken into hot oil. Fry on each side for about 3–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

In a large pan, add about 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying over medium-high heat. Stir in your reserved flour until absorbed, cooking for about one minute.

Step 7: Add Milk to Thicken

Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk until blended. Heat until thickened, then stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Pour gravy over individual pieces of fried chicken before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

With Classic Gravy

• Pour rich, homemade gravy over the chicken for a comforting touch that enhances the flavor.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Serve your Chicken Fried Chicken atop creamy mashed potatoes for a filling and satisfying meal.

With Fresh Green Salad

• Pair with a bright green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

In a Sandwich

• Place fried chicken between two slices of bread with lettuce and tomato for a delicious handheld treat.

Alongside Cornbread

• Add warm cornbread as a side to soak up any extra gravy, making for a hearty combination.

With Pickles on the Side

• Serve with dill pickles to add an extra crunch and tanginess that complements the fried chicken perfectly.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

To ensure your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out crispy and flavorful every time, consider these tips.

• Choose Thin Cuts: Using thinly sliced chicken breasts ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Season Well: Don’t skip seasoning the flour mixture; it adds layers of flavor to your chicken.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at 325°F (163°C) to prevent greasy chicken; too low will make it soggy.
• Double Dredging Technique: Dredging twice in flour before frying gives an extra crunchy exterior that’s hard to resist.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on paper towels helps keep it crispy by removing excess oil.
• Whisk Gravy Consistently: When making gravy, whisk continuously while adding milk to avoid lumps for a smooth texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken

Pair your Chicken Fried Chicken with delicious side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some tasty options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of fried chicken.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans make for an excellent hearty side.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a hit and brings summer flavors to your plate.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: For an authentic Southern touch, serve crispy fried green tomatoes alongside.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition while contrasting textures.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac n’ cheese is a comforting classic that pairs well with fried chicken.
7. Potato Salad: Cool potato salad works beautifully as a side dish, especially in warm weather.
8. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up gravy, adding to the overall comfort of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Buttermilk: Using regular milk instead of buttermilk can lead to a less flavorful and tender chicken. Always opt for buttermilk for that perfect taste.
• Not Heating the Oil Properly: Cooking in oil that’s too cool will make your chicken greasy. Ensure your oil reaches 325°F before frying for that crispy coating.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the pan at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to achieve even cooking and crispiness.
• Ignoring the Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after frying allows juices to redistribute. Don’t skip this step for moist and delicious results.
• Rushing the Gravy: Cooking gravy too quickly can lead to lumps. Take your time when adding milk and whisk thoroughly for a smooth texture.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken

• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen Chicken Fried Chicken is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and warm chicken on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful dish featuring breaded and fried chicken breasts served with creamy gravy. It’s similar to traditional fried chicken but uses boneless pieces.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe calls for thin-sliced chicken breasts, you can use thighs or even tenders based on your preference.

Can I make Chicken Fried Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and fry it ahead of time. Just reheat before serving following our reheating instructions.

What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans. Feel free to experiment with your favorite accompaniments!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is an easy and comforting option for any family dinner. With its crispy exterior and rich gravy, it’s sure to bring joy to your table. Plus, don’t hesitate to customize it by adding spices or herbs to suit your taste!