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. Its crispy exterior and tender chicken make it an all-time favorite that promises to delight everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for family meals.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
- Crispy Texture: The double-dipping technique ensures a crunchy coating that locks in moisture.
- Comfort Food Classic: This Chicken Fried Chicken is a true American comfort food that warms the heart.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking Chicken Fried Chicken easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you will need to prepare this dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep fryer or large pan: A deep fryer allows for even cooking; a large pan can also work if deep enough for frying.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients and creating a smooth batter.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken in hot oil without splattering.
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
For Frying and Gravy
- Oil for frying
- 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 until it reaches 325°F. Ensure there is enough oil so the chicken can submerge partially.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups flour
2. 2 tsp baking powder
3. 1 tsp baking soda
4. 1 tsp salt
5. 1 tsp pepper
6. 1 tsp garlic powder
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
2. 1 egg
3. 1 Tbs hot sauce
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each slice of chicken in the flour mixture first, then dip into the egg mixture, followed by another coat in the flour mixture. Press down firmly to ensure flour sticks well.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry each piece for about 3 to 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 about 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying over medium-high heat. Stir in your reserved flour until absorbed and cook for about one minute.
Step 7: Add Milk to Gravy
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk while stirring continuously until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Serve
Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving to enhance flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Serving Chicken Fried Chicken can create a delightful dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces that enhance its flavor.
With Classic Gravy
- Pour the rich gravy generously over the chicken. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the savory taste.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve your chicken on a fresh salad. Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty fried chicken.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. The potatoes soak up any extra gravy, making each bite delicious.
With Homemade Biscuits
- Enjoy alongside flaky homemade biscuits. They are perfect for sopping up gravy or any leftover sauce on your plate.
As a Sandwich
- Create a hearty sandwich by placing the chicken between two slices of bread with your favorite toppings. Add lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for extra flavor.
With Coleslaw
- Serve with tangy coleslaw for a crunchy side. Its acidity balances the richness of the chicken, providing a well-rounded meal.
How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
To make sure your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose thin chicken breasts: Thin slices cook evenly and quickly, preventing dryness.
- Use buttermilk: Soaking in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
- Double dredge: For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the flour after the egg wash.
- Maintain oil temperature: Keep frying oil at 325°F to ensure golden brown skin without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve even cooking.
- Let it rest: Allow fried chicken to rest on paper towels after frying to ensure crispy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Fried Chicken not only complements the meal but also elevates it. Here are some great options:
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food that’s cheesy and satisfying.
- Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add color and crunch; season lightly with salt.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory flavors; grill or boil for best results.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances out the savory chicken beautifully.
- Fried Okra: Crispy okra is a Southern favorite that pairs excellently with fried chicken.
- Potato Salad: A cool, creamy potato salad is perfect for balancing hot, fried flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts add depth and an earthy touch to your plate.
- Coleslaw Salad: Crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity alongside rich fried chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect your dish’s quality. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the Buttermilk: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Always soak your chicken for at least 30 minutes for a tender result.
- Inaccurate Flour Coating: Failing to coat the chicken properly can cause the breading to fall off during frying. Ensure you dredge, dip, and coat thoroughly.
- Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying at too low or high temperatures can result in greasy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 325°F for optimal frying.
- Ignoring Drainage: Not draining fried chicken on paper towels can make it soggy. Always let it rest on paper towels after frying to keep it crispy.
- Rushing the Gravy: Cooking gravy too quickly may lead to lumps and uneven texture. Take your time when adding milk and whisk continuously for a smooth finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- It will maintain quality for about 2-3 months when frozen.
Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel over it. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add chicken pieces and cover, reheating for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken Fried Chicken.
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a comforting dish made by frying breaded chicken breasts, similar to traditional fried chicken but using boneless cuts.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute pork or turkey cutlets if you prefer different meats, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make my Chicken Fried Chicken spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in the marinade or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the flour mixture before coating.
What should I serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?
Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a delightful meal that complements its flavors perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for frying without compromising taste or texture.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fried Chicken is not only easy and quick but also incredibly satisfying. This meal brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or side dishes to make it your own!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a tender interior. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions and will have the whole family coming back for seconds. With a delightful crunch from the double-dipping technique and a rich, savory gravy that complements every bite, this recipe promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal that everyone will love.
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 cups milk
- Salt & pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 325°F.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge each chicken slice in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, then coat again in flour.
- Fry chicken pieces in hot oil for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For gravy, use reserved oil to cook flour and slowly whisk in milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of Chicken Fried Chicken (150g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
