Ultimate Chicken Fried Chicken: Crispy Comfort Food

Introduction

Gather 'round, food lovers, because we’re about to dive into a dish that’s as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly day. Our Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is all about bringing that golden, crispy goodness straight to your dinner table. We're talking tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly crunchy coating, smothered in homemade country-style gravy that will have you licking the plate clean. If you're a fan of classic comfort food, this dish is about to become your new go-to!

Photo bySam Miller

Key Takeaways

• Double the Dredge, Double the Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, our recipe calls for a double dip in the flour mixture. Trust us, it’s worth it!
• Gravy Game On Point: We’re not just frying up some chicken and calling it a day; we’re also making a rich, creamy gravy from scratch. Because what’s fried chicken without some gravy love?
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you want a spicy kick, cheesy goodness, or a touch of herbs, this recipe is easy to adapt to your cravings.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for feeding a crowd or just indulging in a seriously delicious solo meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 6-8 thin-sliced chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 pounds)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1½ cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, but who doesn’t love a little spice?)
• Oil for frying (peanut or vegetable oil works well)

For the Gravy:

• ¼ cup reserved frying oil
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for that creamy goodness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Photo bySam Miller

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting those chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Thin is in! If they’re a little on the thick side, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. It’ll help them cook evenly and absorb all that yummy flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoned Flour

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything's mixed evenly, so each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Create the Buttermilk Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Give it a good mix so it’s all blended and ready to go.

Step 4: Dredge Like You Mean It

• First Dredge: Dip each chicken piece into the seasoned flour mixture, pressing down to coat well.
• Buttermilk Bath: Now, give that chicken a nice dip in the buttermilk mixture, making sure it’s fully covered.
• Final Dredge: Go back for another round in the flour mixture, pressing down again to ensure a thick, crunchy coating.

Step 5: Fry It Up

Heat oil in a deep skillet to 325°F. You want enough oil to submerge at least half the chicken for an even fry. Cook each piece for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. For peace of mind, check that the internal temperature hits 165°F.

Step 6: Whip Up That Gravy

• In the same skillet, reduce the oil to ¼ cup and keep those flavorful drippings.
• Stir in the ⅓ cup of flour, whisking for about a minute until it turns lightly brown.
• Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to keep things smooth.
• Cook until the gravy thickens, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Photo bySam Miller

Step 7: Serve

Plate the fried chicken, drizzle that warm, creamy gravy over the top, and get ready to dig in!

Side Dish Ideas

If you want to make this meal unforgettable, serve your chicken fried chicken with any of these mouthwatering sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Because there’s no such thing as too much gravy.
• Buttery Biscuits: For sopping up every last drop of gravy goodness.
• Southern Green Beans: Add some crunch and color with sautéed green beans.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Because comfort food is better with cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving (including gravy):

• Calories: 510 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Protein: 37 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 122 mg
• Sodium: 980 mg
• Potassium: 860 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Vitamin A: 320 IU
• Vitamin C: 4 mg
• Calcium: 245 mg
• Iron: 4 mg

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Conclusion

There you have it—Chicken Fried Chicken, perfected! This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a big family dinner, a special occasion, or just because you’re in the mood for some crispy, gravy-covered goodness, this dish is bound to become a staple in your comfort food lineup. So go ahead, get frying, and don’t forget to share the love (and the recipe)!

Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always smell like deliciousness!