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 busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself, this dish will surely impress with its crispy coating and rich gravy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Chicken Fried Chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
Family Favorite: The delightful flavors and crispy texture are guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm, hearty feel of a beloved classic that evokes nostalgia.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or on its own—this dish fits any side perfectly.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this dish without needing to shop for anything special.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Chicken Fried Chicken, having the right tools is key. Make sure you have these essential items ready before starting your cooking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Deep fryer or large pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Slotted spoon or tongs
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Deep fryer or large pan: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy frying without splatter.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter for even coating on chicken pieces.

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
– 2 cup milk
– Salt & pepper

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Begin by heating oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove. The oil should be about a few inches deep and heated to 325°F (163°C) for optimal frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

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

This mixture will create a flavorful coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Whisk these together until fully blended.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture first. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, then return it to the flour mixture. Be sure to press down firmly to ensure the flour sticks well.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place each piece of coated chicken into your hot oil. Fry on each side for about 3–5 minutes until golden brown. Once cooked, remove them and let them drain on paper towel-lined plates. Repeat this step with all chicken pieces.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

In a large pan, add about 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying. Heat on medium-high and stir in:
1/3 cup flour

Cook for about one minute until absorbed. Slowly whisk in:
2 cups milk

Continue whisking until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve!

Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Serving Chicken Fried Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings that enhance its flavors and create a wholesome meal experience.

With Classic Gravy

Pour the homemade gravy over the chicken right before serving for a rich and creamy finish.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the Chicken Fried Chicken on a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up any extra gravy, adding texture and heartiness.

With Fresh Greens

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.

In a Sandwich

Place the fried chicken between two slices of your favorite bread, adding pickles and mayonnaise for a delicious twist.

Topped with Hot Sauce

Drizzle some extra hot sauce on top to add an extra kick, perfect for those who love spicy flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

Achieving the ultimate Chicken Fried Chicken involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always perfect.

Use thinly sliced chicken: Thin slices cook evenly and quickly, ensuring they remain juicy inside while getting crispy outside.
Don’t skip the buttermilk: Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, making it moist and flavorful.
Heat oil properly: Make sure your oil reaches 325°F before frying. This ensures a golden-brown crust without overcooking the chicken.
Double-dip for extra crunch: Dredge the chicken twice in flour for an added layer of crispiness that everyone will love.
Let it rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps drain excess oil and keeps it crispy.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices in your flour mixture for personalized flavor profiles that suit your taste buds.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken

Complementing your Chicken Fried Chicken with sides can turn an excellent meal into an unforgettable feast. Consider these popular options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with gravy.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of fried chicken.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings vibrant color and flavor to your plate; grill or boil for best results.
Biscuit Waffles: Fluffy biscuit waffles drizzled with syrup create a sweet-savory combination that’s hard to resist.
Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a nutty crunch alongside your chicken.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add tanginess that complements the rich flavors of Chicken Fried Chicken.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni offers comfort and indulgence, especially when baked until bubbly.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Fried Chicken can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure each piece cooks evenly.
Not seasoning properly: Skipping seasoning on the chicken or in the flour mixture leads to bland flavors. Don’t forget to season every layer for maximum taste.
Skipping the dredging process: Neglecting to properly dredge the chicken can result in uneven coating. Make sure to coat, dip, and coat again for that perfect crunchy crust.
Using cold ingredients: Cold buttermilk and egg can lead to uneven cooking. Let them sit at room temperature before mixing to achieve better results.
Frying at the wrong temperature: Cooking at too high or low temperatures affects the crispiness of your chicken. Use a thermometer and maintain oil around 325°F for optimal 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 each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes on medium power, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, turning occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Fried Chicken that might help you perfect your recipe.

What is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a deliciously breaded and fried chicken dish similar to fried chicken but typically served with gravy.

How do I make my Chicken Fried Chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, ensure you double-dredge your chicken and fry at the correct temperature of 325°F.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While boneless breasts are commonly used, thighs or drumsticks can also work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to prepare this dish healthier?

You can bake instead of fry or use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour for a healthier twist on Chicken Fried Chicken.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fried Chicken is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly comforting and versatile. Whether you’re serving it with gravy or enjoying it plain, this recipe appeals to all ages. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sides—it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Chicken Fried Chicken

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Chicken Fried Chicken is the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, seasoned batter and smothered in rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish combines minimal ingredients with maximum satisfaction, making it a family favorite. Serve it alongside your choice of sides, and you’re set for a deliciously hearty meal that everyone will adore.

Instructions

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 325°F (163°C).
In one bowl, combine flour with baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, then coat again in flour.
Fry chicken pieces for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
For gravy: Use reserved oil to create a roux with flour; 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: American