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 perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a weeknight dinner, this dish stands out with its crunchy exterior and tender chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Chicken Fried Chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy coating and savory flavor, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
- Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a long grocery list—just a few pantry staples to create this delicious dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with gravy, over rice, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
- Comfort Food Classic: The warm flavors and crispy texture make it the perfect comfort food for any time of year.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking Chicken Fried Chicken, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep fryer or large pan
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving the right frying temperature and creating that golden-brown crust.
- Whisk: Helps combine wet ingredients smoothly, ensuring even flavor throughout the chicken.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Perfect for flipping and removing chicken from hot oil safely without splattering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Coating
- 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
For the Wet Mixture
- 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 cup 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 (a few inches deep) to 325°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Pepper
6. Garlic powder
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Buttermilk
2. Egg
3. Hot sauce
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, dip it into the egg mixture, then back into the flour mixture. Press down firmly to ensure the flour sticks well.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place chicken in the pan/deep fryer:
– Fry on each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
– Remove from oil and drain on paper towel-lined plate.
– Repeat with all chicken pieces.
Step 6: Make Your Gravy
In a large pan, add 1/4 inch of reserved oil from frying and heat on medium-high:
1. Stir in flour until absorbed; cook for about 1 minute.
2. Slowly add in milk while whisking to blend.
3. Heat until thickened; stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Pour gravy over individual pieces of fried chicken before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Chicken!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Serving Chicken Fried Chicken is easy and can be tailored to your family’s preferences. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and sauces, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Classic Southern Style
- Creamy Gravy: Pour the homemade gravy over the chicken for that authentic Southern experience.
- Biscuits: Serve warm, flaky biscuits on the side to soak up any extra gravy.
Fresh Salads
- Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the meal nicely.
Hearty Sides
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up gravy and providing comfort.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and color to your plate.
Flavorful Sauces
- Hot Sauce: For those who like heat, offer hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.
- Honey Mustard: A drizzle of honey mustard gives a sweet and tangy twist to your fried chicken.
How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
To ensure your Chicken Fried Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Choose Thin Breasts: Using thinly sliced chicken breasts ensures even cooking and crispy results.
- Double Dredge: Dredging the chicken twice in flour helps create a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at 325°F for optimal frying; too hot can burn, while too cool can make it soggy.
- Let It Rest: Allow fried chicken to rest on paper towels after cooking; this helps retain crispness by removing excess oil.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Fried Chicken enhances its flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this classic comfort food is always a hit.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add a delightful crunch and tanginess.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans complement the richness of fried chicken beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables offers color and nutrition to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken while adding extra texture.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is another classic that pairs well with fried foods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Fried Chicken can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
-
Skipping the Buttermilk Soak: Not allowing your chicken to soak in buttermilk can lead to less tender meat. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
-
Using Cold Oil: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough will result in greasy chicken. Ensure your oil reaches 325°F before adding the chicken for a crispy texture.
-
Not Pressing the Coating: Failing to press down on the flour mixture when coating can lead to uneven breading. Make sure to firmly press to get that perfect crust.
-
Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy fried chicken. Fry in batches for even cooking.
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Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to season both the flour mix and the gravy can make your dish bland. Season generously with salt and pepper throughout the process.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken on a baking tray, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a delicious twist on traditional fried chicken. It involves breaded and fried chicken breasts served with creamy gravy, making it a comforting meal option.
How can I customize my Chicken Fried Chicken?
You can add your favorite spices or herbs to the flour mixture for added flavor. Consider trying paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning for a unique twist!
Can I make Chicken Fried Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry it fresh when serving.
What’s the best way to serve Chicken Fried Chicken?
It’s best served hot with homemade gravy drizzled over it. Pair it with mashed potatoes or biscuits for a classic Southern meal!
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of your fried chicken should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fried Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its crispy outer layer combined with tender meat makes it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this delightful dish today!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that’s perfect for any family meal or gathering. This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a crispy, golden-brown coating, all served with a rich, creamy gravy that elevates this dish to new heights. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, you can have dinner ready in just 30 minutes! Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, everyone will love the savory flavors and crunchy texture of this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 6–8 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour
- 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 325°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, dip in the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour.
- Fry chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For gravy, use reserved oil to make a roux with flour and add milk until thickened.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of Chicken Fried Chicken (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
