Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

If you're looking for the ultimate comfort food that delivers the perfect balance of crispy and juicy, then chicken fried chicken is exactly what you need. This Southern classic is a delightful twist on fried chicken, featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts that are double-dipped and fried to golden perfection. Whether you're craving a comforting family dinner or looking to impress your guests with a delicious meal, this chicken fried chicken recipe will hit the spot. Stay with us to discover every detail of this mouthwatering dish, from ingredients to expert tips.

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What is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken fried chicken is a dish that takes boneless chicken breasts, coats them in seasoned flour, and fries them in a skillet until golden and crispy. Similar to chicken fried steak, the chicken is typically served with creamy country gravy, making it a comforting, flavorful meal. Unlike traditional fried chicken, which often uses bone-in chicken pieces, chicken fried chicken uses boneless breasts for a quicker cooking time while still delivering that signature crunchy crust. It’s a true Southern favorite that’s beloved for its simplicity, flavor, and satisfying texture.

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Ingredients List for Chicken Fried Chicken

To make this delicious chicken fried chicken recipe, you'll need a few key ingredients. Gather everything before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use chicken cutlets or tenderloins for a quicker cooking option.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – This will be the base of the crispy coating.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a hint of savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the coating.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Brings a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the breading.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a little heat.
• 1 tablespoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning and a bit of spice.
• 2 large eggs – The eggs help the flour adhere to the chicken.
• ½ cup buttermilk – Adds tanginess and tenderizes the chicken.
• Vegetable oil for frying – Canola oil or peanut oil also works well for frying.

For the Gravy (Optional but Recommended):

• ¼ cup butter – For a rich, flavorful gravy base.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy.
• 2 cups whole milk – Creates a creamy texture.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors in the gravy.

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Substitutions and Variations

There’s always room to adjust a recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider for your chicken fried chicken:

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the coating, and ensure any other ingredients (like buttermilk) are gluten-free.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy spicy food, increase the cayenne pepper or add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for extra kick.
• Different meats: Although chicken breasts are the traditional choice, you can easily use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
• Healthier frying: For a lighter version, you can pan-fry the chicken in less oil or even bake it. To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F, spray the chicken with cooking spray, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making chicken fried chicken is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure that your chicken turns out juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Prep the chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Set up your breading station: You’ll need two shallow bowls or plates. In the first, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. In the second, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip the chicken into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, dip the chicken back into the flour mixture, pressing it gently to create a thick, crispy coating.
4. Heat the oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet or frying pan to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (you can use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by sprinkling a little flour into it—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Make the gravy: While the chicken is frying, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the chicken fried chicken hot, with the creamy gravy drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping. Pair it with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a truly comforting meal.

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

Here’s a quick recap to ensure your chicken fried chicken turns out perfect every time:

1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Set up a breading station with a flour mixture and a buttermilk-egg mixture.
4. Double dip the chicken in flour, egg wash, and then flour again.
5. Heat oil to 350°F in a skillet for frying.
6. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
7. Make the creamy gravy while the chicken fries.
8. Serve hot with gravy and your favorite side dishes.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though chicken fried chicken is a relatively simple dish, a few common mistakes can prevent you from achieving the perfect result:

• Skipping the double dip: The double coating of flour is key to a thick, crunchy crust. Don’t skip this step!
• Frying in too little oil: Ensure the chicken is at least halfway submerged in oil. Too little oil can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy coating.
• Crowding the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Too many pieces at once will lower the oil temperature and make the chicken greasy.
• Not checking the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving chicken fried chicken, presentation is important to turn a simple meal into something special:

• Serve family-style: Place the chicken on a large platter with a generous bowl of gravy on the side, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
• Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
• Accompany with sides: Classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, biscuits, and coleslaw pair beautifully with chicken fried chicken.

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How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken fried chicken is best served hot and fresh, but here are some tips to make your meal stand out:

• Top with gravy: Drizzle the creamy gravy directly over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Pair with starches: Mashed potatoes or buttered biscuits are ideal for soaking up the gravy and adding extra heartiness to the meal.
• Serve with vegetables: Lighten up the meal by serving with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or corn on the cob.

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Presentation Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

Elevate your presentation with these creative ideas:

• Rustic farmhouse style: Serve the chicken on wooden boards with small gravy pitchers at each end for easy pouring.
• Individual plates: Plate each piece of chicken atop a bed of mashed potatoes, with gravy drizzled over both for an elegant yet homey look.
• Casual comfort: Serve chicken fried chicken in cast iron skillets or enamel baking dishes for a casual, Southern-style presentation.

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Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe Tips

To ensure your chicken fried chicken comes out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a meat mallet: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks uniformly.
• Monitor oil temperature: Keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F for optimal frying. Too cool, and the chicken will absorb oil; too hot, and the crust will burn before the inside cooks through.
• Rest the chicken: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist, tender meat.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make chicken fried chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain its crispiness.

Q: Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?
A: Absolutely! A deep fryer works well for this recipe. Just ensure the oil temperature stays at 350°F and fry the chicken in small batches.

Q: Can I freeze leftover chicken fried chicken?
A: Yes, freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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Conclusion

Chicken fried chicken is the epitome of comfort food. With its crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior, paired with creamy gravy, it’s a dish that will have your family or guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this recipe is a surefire way to satisfy any craving for Southern comfort. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious meal! Happy cooking!

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