Chicken Fried Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Chicken Fried Chicken. I still remember my grandmother in the kitchen, whipping up her version, the aroma wafting through the house and igniting memories of family gatherings and laughter. Whenever I hear the sizzle of chicken hitting the hot oil, it transports me back to those cherished moments. The crispy, golden-brown coating, combined with the tender, juicy chicken underneath, is the epitome of comfort food that warms your heart and soul. When I make Chicken Fried Chicken today, I often think about how my family would gather around the table, eagerly waiting to dig into this delightful dish.

Chicken Fried Chicken Ingredients

The ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken are not just about flavor; they work together to create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken to the crispy coating and the creamy gravy. The balance of ingredients ensures that each bite is full of flavor and satisfaction.

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, these breasts are juicy and tender, forming the base of the meal.
• 1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tanginess, helping to tenderize the chicken.
• 1 large egg: Binding the coating, the egg helps the flour adhere to the chicken.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: This is the key ingredient for the crispy coating, providing the base for the breading.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: This ingredient helps create a lighter, crunchier texture when frying.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides a mild kick to the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon white pepper: Adds a soft peppery flavor without clashing with the coating’s color.
• vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Used in the gravy to thicken it up.
• 2 cups whole milk: Forms the base of the gravy, making it creamy and delicious.
• kosher salt (to taste): Adjust the flavor of the gravy to your liking.
• ground black pepper (to taste): Also seasoning to taste, enhancing the flavor of the gravy.

Cooking Method for Chicken Fried Chicken

Cooking Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful experience that transforms simple ingredients into a feast. The steps are straightforward, yet they require some attention to detail to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and the coating is crispy. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally, creating four thin portions. If needed, place the slices between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and makes the chicken tender.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. This mixture will help the flour stick to the chicken and add flavor.
3. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and white pepper. Whisk well to ensure even seasoning throughout the coating.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated, then transfer it to the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated to achieve that crispy texture. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and repeat until all pieces are coated. Allow the chicken to rest while preparing the gravy.
5. In a large skillet set over medium heat, pour in at least 1 inch of vegetable oil for frying. Heat the oil until it reaches around 350°F. This temperature is crucial; too hot will burn the chicken, while too cool will make it greasy.
6. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Remove the fried chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil while you make the gravy.
8. In a large saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden. This is your roux, which will thicken the gravy.
9. Slowly whisk in milk and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
10. Serve the gravy hot over the fried chicken. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Chicken Fried Chicken.

Recipe Variations about Chicken Fried Chicken

If you’re looking to mix things up with Chicken Fried Chicken, there are plenty of delicious variations to consider. Here are some ideas to spark your creativity!

• Spicy Version: For a kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade, giving your chicken a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour mixture for added flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini, following the same breading and frying process.
• Garnish Options: Top your fried chicken with sliced green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
• Gravy Variations: Experiment with adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to your gravy for extra depth.
• Serving Styles: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Side Dish Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

When it comes to serving Chicken Fried Chicken, the options are endless! Here are some delightful side dishes that pair beautifully:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, especially when topped with gravy.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a nice contrast and freshness to the meal.
• Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a simple yet flavorful addition.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with honey or butter are perfect for soaking up gravy.
• Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern classic, these can serve as a tasty appetizer or side dish.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, especially among kids!

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Chicken Fried Chicken lies in its perfect blend of crispy textures and rich flavors, making it a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and family tradition. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and give this recipe a try. You won’t just be feeding them; you’ll be sharing a piece of your heart and heritage with every delicious bite.

Chicken Fried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food made with crispy, golden chicken coated in flavorful breading, served with rich gravy. Chicken Fried Chicken is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will adore!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 590

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• to taste kosher salt
• to taste ground black pepper

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Wire Rack
• Whisk
• Meat Thermometer

Method

 

1. Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally, creating four thin portions. If needed, place the slices between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and makes the chicken tender.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. This mixture will help the flour stick to the chicken and add flavor.
3. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and white pepper. Whisk well to ensure even seasoning throughout the coating.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated, then transfer it to the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated to achieve that crispy texture. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and repeat until all pieces are coated. Allow the chicken to rest while preparing the gravy.
5. In a large skillet set over medium heat, pour in at least 1 inch of vegetable oil for frying. Heat the oil until it reaches around 350°F. This temperature is crucial; too hot will burn the chicken, while too cool will make it greasy.
6. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Remove the fried chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil while you make the gravy.
8. In a large saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden. This is your roux, which will thicken the gravy.
9. Slowly whisk in milk and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
10. Serve the gravy hot over the fried chicken. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Chicken Fried Chicken.

Notes

• Oil Temperature: Always ensure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F, before adding the chicken. This helps create a crispy crust.
• Batch Cooking: If you have multiple pieces of chicken, fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.
• Resting Time: Allow the coated chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
• Gravy Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more milk or cooking it longer to thicken.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.