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 suitable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. This dish stands out with its crispy exterior and tender chicken, smothered in rich gravy that enhances every bite.

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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 the Oil
• Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Mix the 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
• Comfort Food Favorites
• Light and Fresh Options
• 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
• How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?
• Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
• What can I serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?
• How long does it take to make Chicken Fried Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family Favorite: Appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys dinner.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or paired with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
• Homemade Gravy: The rich gravy takes this dish to another level, adding depth of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing your dry ingredients and wet mixtures separately.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when making the buttermilk mixture and gravy.
• Tongs: Ideal for safely flipping chicken during frying without losing any coating.

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 (a few inches deep) to 325°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

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: Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge your chicken in the flour mixture. Then dip into the egg mixture before returning to the flour mixture. Press down firmly so that flour sticks well.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Place chicken in the pan or deep fryer. Fry each piece for about 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all chicken pieces.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

In a large pan, add 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying. Heat on medium-high and stir in your reserved flour until absorbed. Cook for about one minute.

Step 7: Add Milk

Slowly add in your milk while whisking to blend. Heat until thickened, then stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

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

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Serving Chicken Fried Chicken can be a delightful experience that brings out the best flavors of this comfort dish. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy it.

Classic Southern Style

• Serve with mashed potatoes for a creamy, buttery side that complements the crispy chicken.
• Pair with collard greens to add a healthy, savory touch that balances the meal.

Comfort Food Favorites

• Top with homemade gravy to enhance the rich flavor and add moisture.
• Add corn on the cob for a sweet crunch that pairs well with fried dishes.

Light and Fresh Options

• Include a side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans for a nutritious balance.

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How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked Chicken Fried Chicken, consider these helpful tips. They can make all the difference in flavor and texture.

• Choose thin chicken breasts: Thinner cuts fry more evenly and quickly, ensuring a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
• Use buttermilk marinade: Marinating your chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and tenderizes the meat for juicier results.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keeping your frying oil at 325°F is crucial for achieving that golden brown crust while cooking the chicken thoroughly.
• Double-dip for extra crunch: Dredge your chicken twice in flour after dipping in the egg mixture for an extra crispy layer.
• Let it rest post-frying: Allowing fried chicken to rest on paper towels helps reduce grease while keeping it warm and juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices to your flour mixture to enhance flavor according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Fried Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options you might consider.

1. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits served warm are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.
2. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and freshness, balancing the richness of fried chicken.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes: These offer a tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser alongside fried dishes.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans pairs well with savory chicken flavors, providing a delightful contrast.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad can add a refreshing element that works well with hot fried food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Fried Chicken can be straightforward, but avoiding common errors will ensure a delicious meal. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the buttermilk: This is essential for flavor and tenderness. Always marinate your chicken in buttermilk for optimal results.

• Not using enough oil: Insufficient oil can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your frying pan has at least a few inches of hot oil.

• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken at once can drop the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain consistent heat.

• Ignoring resting time: Letting the chicken rest after frying helps it retain juices. Don’t skip this step for the best texture.

• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can result in bland chicken. Season the flour mixture and the gravy generously.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of oil. Cover to warm evenly, turning occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Chicken Fried Chicken:

How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, double-dip your chicken by coating it in flour, dipping it back into the egg mixture, and then coating it again in flour before frying.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes! You can try this recipe with pork chops or turkey cutlets. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on thickness.

What can I serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans. These pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish.

How long does it take to make Chicken Fried Chicken?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking, making it a quick option for dinner!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fried Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying for any family dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and sides according to your preferences. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t regret it!