The crispy, golden-brown crust of chicken fried chicken brings back fond memories of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. The irresistible aroma wafting through the air always promised a feast that would make everyone’s mouth water. Just the thought of it makes me want to dive into a plate piled high with this deliciousness!
Now, imagine cutting into that juicy chicken, the crunch of the coating giving way to tender meat underneath. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With a simple recipe that packs a flavor punch, you’ll be craving this dish long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried chicken is not only an easy dish to whip up but also delivers an explosion of flavor with each bite
- The crispy exterior and moist interior make it visually appealing and utterly satisfying
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts
- Plus, you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste buds!
Ingredients for chicken fried chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty meal; adjust based on your guest list.
- Buttermilk: This tangy liquid helps tenderize the chicken and adds rich flavor; let your chicken soak for at least an hour.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crunchy coating; feel free to add some cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Garlic Powder: A dash of this adds depth and warmth; it’s like a secret handshake among all great fried foods.
- Paprika: Adds color and mild smokiness; you can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; season generously for best results.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil for perfect frying conditions.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chicken fried chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Let them soak in that creamy goodness for at least one hour—this step is crucial for achieving maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined so every bite packs a punch of flavor.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Take each piece of marinated chicken out of the buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off. Then coat it generously with the flour mixture until it’s completely covered—think fluffy clouds of deliciousness!
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about half an inch of the bottom. Wait until it’s hot—if you drop a pinch of flour in and it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to fry!
Step 5: Fry That Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil (no splashing!). Fry each piece for around six to eight minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once cooked, transfer your glorious creations onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw are always winners!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every crispy bite!
You Must Know
- This chicken fried chicken recipe offers more than just a satisfying crunch; it delivers comfort food at its finest
- You can easily modify the spices based on your taste preferences
- The golden-brown crust and juicy chicken will be the star of your dinner table
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for maximum flavor. Next, heat the oil for frying while coating the chicken in seasoned flour. Fry until golden brown, then let it rest to absorb all those delicious juices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices like cayenne pepper for a kick or garlic powder for rich depth. Add herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic touch, or consider tossing in some grated Parmesan into the flour mixture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it retains its crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy results, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—aim for around 350°F
- Letting the coated chicken rest helps the breading stick better during frying
- Experiment with different seasonings to find your signature flavor!
Sometimes when I make this dish, my friends ask if I could open a restaurant just for my chicken fried chicken! I can’t help but smile, knowing it’s become a beloved staple among my circle.
FAQs:
What is chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken is a delicious Southern dish that features boneless chicken breasts coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden brown. Unlike traditional fried chicken, which uses the whole bird, this dish focuses on tender chicken breasts. It’s often served with creamy gravy and sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw, making it a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
How do you make the gravy for chicken fried chicken?
To make gravy for chicken fried chicken, start by using the drippings left in the skillet after frying the chicken. Add flour to create a roux, cooking it until golden. Gradually pour in milk while whisking to achieve a smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich, creamy gravy complements the crispy chicken perfectly and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Can you bake chicken fried chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake chicken fried chicken as a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After coating the chicken in seasoned flour, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil to promote browning. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown. Though it won’t be as crispy as traditional fried chicken, it will still be delicious.
What sides pair well with chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides. Popular choices include creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, buttery cornbread, and tangy coleslaw. Other great options are green beans sautéed with garlic or a fresh garden salad. These sides not only complement the flavors of the dish but also create a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Conclusion for chicken fried chicken:
In conclusion, chicken fried chicken is a delightful twist on classic Southern comfort food that brings joy to any table. Its crispy coating and tender meat make it irresistible, especially when paired with savory gravy and traditional sides. Whether you fry or bake it, this dish offers versatility and flavor that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to try making this mouthwatering recipe at home; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Succulent and crispy, this chicken fried chicken recipe takes comfort food to the next level. With its golden-brown crust and juicy interior, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The buttermilk marinade ensures tenderness, while the seasoned flour coating provides an irresistible crunch. Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and gravy for a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- 1. Marinate chicken: Soak chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- 2. Prepare coating: In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Dredge chicken: Remove marinated chicken from buttermilk and coat with the flour mixture.
- 4. Heat oil: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high until hot.
- 5. Fry chicken: Cook each piece for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- 6. Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (140g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
