Chicken Fried Chicken

Easy and delicious, 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 it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish stands out with its crunchy coating and creamy gravy.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Gravy
• How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
• Step 1: Heat Oil
• Step 2: Prepare Dry Mixture
• Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
• Step 5: Fry the Chicken
• Step 6: Make the Gravy
• Step 7: Add Milk
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
• Classic Southern Style
• Family-Friendly Options
• Light and Fresh Choices
• How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
• Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen chicken for Chicken Fried Chicken?
• What is the best oil for frying Chicken Fried Chicken?
• How do I make Chicken Fried Chicken crispy?
• Can I add spices to the flour mixture?
• How do I store leftover gravy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The crispy chicken paired with rich gravy is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.
• Simple Ingredients: With accessible pantry staples, you can whip up this dish without a trip to the grocery store.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm, hearty flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this fantastic dish, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture by frying your chicken evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Important for keeping your flour mixture and wet ingredients separate for optimal dredging.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring your batter is lump-free.
• Tongs: Ideal for safely handling hot chicken when frying.

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 Oil

Heat oil in deep fryer or large pan on stove (a few inches deep) to 325°F.

Step 2: Prepare 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 your chicken in the flour mixture. Then dip it into the egg mixture before returning to the flour mixture. Press down firmly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place chicken in the pan or deep fryer. Fry on each side for 3–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

In a separate large pan, add 1/4 of reserved oil from frying. Heat on medium-high. Stir in your reserved flour until absorbed; cook for about 1 minute.

Step 7: Add Milk

Slowly add in your milk while whisking continuously until blended. Cook until thickened. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken just before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Fried Chicken as part of your next family meal!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Serving Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, these serving suggestions will enhance the dish’s appeal.

Classic Southern Style

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to this crispy chicken. Top with gravy for extra flavor.
• Collard Greens – A traditional side in Southern cuisine, collard greens add a healthy and savory touch to your plate.
• Cornbread – Fluffy cornbread pairs beautifully, soaking up all the delicious gravy from your Chicken Fried Chicken.

Family-Friendly Options

• Macaroni and Cheese – This cheesy classic is always a hit with kids and adults alike, adding richness to your meal.
• Green Beans Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors of the fried chicken.

Light and Fresh Choices

• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with fresh vegetables can brighten up your plate while adding some freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients, making your meal more vibrant.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

Perfecting Chicken Fried Chicken involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Buttermilk – Marinating chicken in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in juicy chicken.
• Double Dredge Technique – Dredging the chicken twice (flour, egg, flour) creates a thicker crust that holds up during frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Keeping oil at 325°F ensures even cooking and prevents greasy chicken; use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Rest After Frying – Allowing your fried chicken to rest for a few minutes on paper towels helps absorb excess oil for a crispier finish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Fried Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Biscuits – Soft, buttery biscuits are perfect for mopping up gravy and providing a comforting side.
2. Fried Okra – This crunchy Southern favorite adds texture and is an ideal match with fried chicken.
3. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
4. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad offers freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the fried chicken.
5. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans bring warmth and depth, making them an excellent accompaniment.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – These sweet treats provide a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of your meal while offering nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Chicken Fried Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Buttermilk: This ingredient is key for tenderizing the chicken. Always use buttermilk for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Heating Oil Properly: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken won’t cook correctly. Make sure to heat it to 325 degrees before frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches for even cooking and crispiness.
• Inconsistent Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated in flour. This helps form that delicious crust we all love.
• Ignoring Gravy Consistency: A good gravy should be creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°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 with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat, then add chicken. Cook until heated through, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many readers have questions about making Chicken Fried Chicken. Here are some common ones.

Can I use frozen chicken for Chicken Fried Chicken?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to guarantee even frying.

What is the best oil for frying Chicken Fried Chicken?

Vegetable oil or peanut oil are great choices due to their high smoke points.

How do I make Chicken Fried Chicken crispy?

Make sure your coating is thick enough and fry at the right temperature, around 325°F (165°C).

Can I add spices to the flour mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover gravy?

Store any leftover gravy separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options, from spice variations to side dishes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner with family!