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 weeknight dinners or special occasions. The crispy coating combined with creamy gravy makes this dish a standout choice for any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a scrumptious meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crunchy texture and savory flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals; it fits any occasion.
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: The crispy chicken paired with rich gravy is a true comfort meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Chicken Fried Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.
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: Ensures even cooking and keeps the oil at the right temperature for crispy results.
- Mixing bowls: Helpful for keeping dry and wet ingredients separate during preparation.
- Whisk: Essential for combining wet ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
– 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
– 2 cup milk (for gravy)
– Salt & pepper (to taste)
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. Make sure there are a few inches of oil to allow proper frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour 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: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1 1/2 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 Tbs hot sauce
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Press down firmly to ensure ample coating.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place chicken in the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3–5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on paper towel-lined plates. Repeat with remaining chicken.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
In a large pan, add reserved oil (about 1/4 inch). Heat on medium-high heat. Stir in:
1/3 cup flour until absorbed; cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually add:
2 cups milk while whisking continuously until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving. Enjoy your deliciously comforting Chicken Fried Chicken!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a classic approach or something unique, the options are plenty. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Classic Southern Style
- With Gravy: Pour your homemade gravy over the chicken for a rich flavor.
- With Biscuits: Serve alongside fluffy biscuits for a true Southern feast.
Comfort Food Combo
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for the perfect side.
- Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a nice crunch and color to your plate.
Lighter Options
- Salad: A refreshing garden salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: The cool crunch of coleslaw complements the warm, crispy chicken perfectly.
Family-Style Presentation
- On a Platter: Arrange the chicken on a large platter with sides to share family-style.
- In Sandwiches: Use leftover chicken in sandwiches with lettuce and tomato for lunch.
How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
Perfecting Chicken Fried Chicken requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for an unbeatable dish.
- Use Buttermilk: Marinating in buttermilk keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor.
- Double Dredge: For extra crispiness, double dredge your chicken in flour after dipping it in the egg mixture.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 325°F for even frying; too hot will burn the crust before cooking the chicken.
- Rest After Frying: Allow fried chicken to rest on paper towels for a few minutes to soak up excess oil.
- Season Your Gravy: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning in your gravy for maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing sides with Chicken Fried Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.
- Creamed Corn: Sweet corn cooked in cream adds a delicious touch.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: A crunchy, tangy side that echoes Southern flavors.
- Cornbread: Warm cornbread serves as an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up gravy.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Cheesy comfort food that pairs well with crispy chicken.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans provide a savory contrast to the fried meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These veggies bring color and balance with their slight bitterness.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad makes for a refreshing side option.
- Colcannon: This Irish dish of mashed potatoes and greens offers a unique twist with each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Chicken Fried Chicken can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can compromise the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Ignoring the temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can lead to soggy or burnt chicken. Always use a thermometer to ensure oil is at 325°F before frying.
- Not seasoning enough: Skipping seasoning can result in bland chicken. Make sure to season both the flour and the buttermilk mixture for maximum flavor.
- Inadequate dredging: Failing to coat the chicken properly can lead to uneven breading. Ensure you follow the dredging steps carefully for a crispy exterior.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy results. Fry in batches for best results.
- Skipping the resting time: Not letting the fried chicken rest on paper towels can trap steam and make it soggy. Always allow it to drain after frying.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen Chicken Fried Chicken is best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. 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 intervals of 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and warm each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Chicken Fried Chicken, you are not alone! Here are some frequently asked inquiries.
How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, ensure that your chicken is well-dredged and double-dip it in flour before frying. This adds more texture.
Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, using boneless skinless thighs works well too! They tend to remain juicy and flavorful while frying.
What should I serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans for a complete meal that brings comfort.
Is Chicken Fried Chicken healthy?
While delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its frying method. Consider baking it as a healthier alternative if desired.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fried Chicken is an easy recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its crispy coating combined with tender meat makes it irresistible. You can customize this dish by adding spices or serving with different sides, making it versatile for any family gathering or weeknight dinner!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with a crispy coating that everyone loves. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 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 cups buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbs hot sauce
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk (for gravy)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan until it reaches 325°F.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, then back into the flour.
- Carefully fry each piece of chicken for 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For gravy, heat reserved oil in a pan, add flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Season to taste.
- Serve chicken topped with gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with gravy (150g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
