Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of fried chicken with a creamy gravy. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or a special occasion. It brings together crispy chicken, rich gravy, and a satisfying crunch that everyone loves. Making it from scratch adds a personal touch that makes this meal even more special.
How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
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 tbsp hot sauce
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove to 325°F (about a few inches deep).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Make sure to press down the flour so it sticks well to the chicken.
- Place the chicken in the pan or deep fryer and fry on each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all the chicken.
- To make your gravy, add 1/4" of oil from frying into a large pan and heat on medium-high. Stir in 1/3 cup of flour until absorbed and cook for about 1 minute.
- Slowly add in the milk, whisking to blend. Heat until thickened, then stir in salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken Fried Chicken is best served hot. Place the crispy chicken on a plate and generously ladle the rich gravy over the top. You can serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Chicken Fried Chicken
To store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven to keep the chicken crispy, or use the microwave if you prefer a quicker option.
Tips to Make Chicken Fried Chicken
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
- If you want extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours or overnight.
- For a spicy kick, adjust the hot sauce in the egg mixture to your taste.
Variation
You can add different spices to the flour mixture for a unique flavor. Consider using paprika, cayenne pepper, or even Italian seasoning to switch things up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result! Just make sure they are cooked through.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I freeze Chicken Fried Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Chicken Fried Chicken. Just make sure it is stored in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6-8 pieces thin sliced chicken breasts Use chicken breasts for a classic option.
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 cups buttermilk
- 1 piece egg
- 1 tbsp hot sauce Adjust for spice preference.
- as needed Oil for frying Enough for frying, heated to 325°F.
For the Gravy
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour For thickening the gravy.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk recommended.
- to taste salt & pepper For seasoning the gravy.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove to 325°F (about a few inches deep).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, dip it into the egg mixture, and then back into the flour mixture. Ensure the flour sticks well.
Frying the Chicken
- Place the chicken in the pan or deep fryer and fry on each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all the chicken.
Making the Gravy
- In a large pan, add 1/4 cup of oil from frying and heat on medium-high.
- Stir in 1/3 cup of flour until absorbed and cook for about 1 minute.
- Slowly add in the milk, whisking to blend. Heat until thickened and stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving.