Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Craving a crispy, golden, Southern-style meal that’s both tender and flavorful? Look no further than Chicken Fried Chicken! This easy, classic dish takes juicy chicken breasts, coats them in seasoned flour, and fries them to crispy perfection. If you’ve ever enjoyed chicken fried steak, you’ll love this variation that swaps steak for chicken. Serve it with mashed potatoes, gravy, and your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Stick around, because this article will guide you through every step of creating the best Chicken Fried Chicken you’ve ever had!

What Is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a Southern comfort food classic, featuring tenderized chicken breasts that are breaded and fried to a crispy, golden brown. Despite its name, Chicken Fried Chicken doesn’t involve steak like its cousin, chicken fried steak. Instead, it takes boneless chicken, coats it in seasoned flour, and fries it in oil or shortening until it’s perfectly crispy. Typically served with a creamy white gravy, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special Sunday suppers.

Ingredients List for Chicken Fried Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Chicken Fried Chicken:

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – About 4 large chicken breasts, each pounded to an even thickness.
2. All-Purpose Flour – The base for the crispy coating.
3. Buttermilk – Adds tang and helps the flour coating stick to the chicken.
4. Eggs – Help the flour adhere and contribute to the crispy texture.
5. Hot Sauce (optional) – Adds a little heat and flavor to the buttermilk mixture.
6. Baking Powder – Helps create a lighter, crispier coating.
7. Garlic Powder – Adds a savory note to the flour mixture.
8. Onion Powder – Enhances the overall flavor.
9. Paprika – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and a pop of color.
10. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the flour mixture.
11. Oil for Frying – Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or even shortening works great for frying.
12. Butter – For added richness in the frying process and in making gravy.

Additional Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken

Here are a few more ingredients to consider, depending on how you like your chicken fried chicken:

1. Cayenne Pepper – If you like a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne in the flour mixture will do the trick.
2. Cornstarch – Mixing some cornstarch into the flour mixture can make the coating extra crispy.
3. Buttermilk Gravy Ingredients:
   • Milk – Used to create a creamy gravy.
   • Flour – To thicken the gravy.
   • Black Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper is a must for classic Southern gravy.

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken Fried Chicken is versatile, and you can make it your own with a few easy substitutions or variations:

1. Chicken Substitutes – If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier cut of meat. They may require a bit longer cooking time.
2. Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make this dish gluten-free.
3. Spice it Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Air Fryer Option – To make a healthier version, you can try cooking the chicken in an air fryer. Spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Gravy Variations – If you’re not a fan of classic white gravy, try making a country brown gravy or even a spicy sausage gravy for added flavor.
6. Oven-Fried – If you’d prefer not to fry, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Simply place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the ultimate Chicken Fried Chicken:

1. Pound the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: Lightly season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture: In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce (if using). This will be your wet mixture for dredging.
4. Make the Flour Mixture: In another shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, baking powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add a bit of cornstarch for extra crispiness.
5. Dredge the Chicken: First, dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
6. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F for frying.
7. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
8. Drain and Rest: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels. This helps maintain the crispy texture.
9. Make the Gravy (optional): To make a classic white gravy, remove all but 2-3 tablespoons of the oil from the pan, leaving any browned bits behind. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in about 1½ cups of milk and continue whisking until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper.

How to Cook Chicken Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep and Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken to a uniform thickness. This is crucial to avoid undercooked or overcooked parts.
2. Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: The secret to an ultra-crispy coating is double-dipping the chicken in the flour and buttermilk mixtures.
3. Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is around 350°F for optimal frying. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
5. Let the Chicken Rest: Resting the fried chicken on a wire rack allows excess oil to drain and keeps the coating crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Pounding Step: If you skip pounding the chicken to an even thickness, you risk uneven cooking. Thin areas will cook too fast, while thicker areas may remain undercooked.
2. Frying in Oil That’s Too Hot or Too Cold: If the oil is too hot, the outside of the chicken will burn before the inside cooks through. If the oil is too cool, the coating will turn out greasy.
3. Not Letting the Chicken Rest After Frying: Always let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep the coating crisp.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Fried Chicken is best served hot and fresh, accompanied by sides that complement its rich, crispy texture. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your dish:

1. Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, or biscuits. Don’t forget the creamy white gravy!
2. Drizzle with Gravy: Pour a generous amount of gravy over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
4. Serve on a Platter: Present the fried chicken on a large platter with sides around the edges for a family-style meal.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

When serving Chicken Fried Chicken:

• Plate It Up: Serve each piece of chicken with a generous helping of mashed potatoes and gravy. Add a vegetable side like green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
• Family Style: For larger gatherings, present the chicken on a platter with gravy served on the side in a gravy boat.
• Brunch Option: Consider serving Chicken Fried Chicken with waffles for a fun brunch twist.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

• Rustic Style: Serve the chicken on a wooden cutting board or a large rustic platter with gravy in a mason jar for a down-home presentation.
• Individual Portions: For individual servings, place the chicken on top of mashed potatoes and drizzle with gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a biscuit on the side.
• Layered Plates: Plate the chicken on top of a bed of mashed potatoes or grits, and top with crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe Tips

1. Use a Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken (165°F) and an oil thermometer to monitor the frying temperature (around 350°F).
2. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving: Resting the chicken after frying ensures the juices redistribute for a tender, juicy bite.
3. Make Extra Gravy: People always want extra gravy! Be sure to make enough so there’s plenty to go around.
4. Reheat Crispy: If you have leftovers, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven to keep the coating crispy instead of microwaving, which can make it soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Fried Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, serve immediately. If you must make it ahead, reheat the chicken in an oven to maintain its crispiness.

Can I freeze Chicken Fried Chicken?

Yes! Freeze cooked chicken fried chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How long should I fry each chicken breast?

Fry each chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Can I use an air fryer?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can cook Chicken Fried Chicken in an air fryer. Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are great for frying due to their high smoke points.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate Southern comfort food—a crispy, golden exterior with juicy, tender chicken inside, paired with creamy gravy and classic sides like mashed potatoes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this easy-to-follow recipe will ensure your chicken comes out perfect every time. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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