If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, you’re in the right place! This Southern comfort food favorite is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or any time you want a hearty, satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making chicken fried chicken, complete with homemade creamy gravy.
What Is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken fried chicken is essentially a chicken breast that’s been breaded and fried in the style of chicken fried steak. The chicken is tenderized, dipped in a flavorful batter or buttermilk mixture, coated in a seasoned flour or cracker crumb mixture, then fried until golden and crispy. It’s often served smothered in a rich white gravy, making it a true Southern classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
– 6-8 thin-sliced chicken breasts (or 2 large breasts sliced in half lengthwise)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 ½ cups buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for a little kick)
– Vegetable oil for frying (about ¾ to 1 cup)
For the Gravy:
– ¼ cup reserved oil from frying
– ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts thinly if they aren’t already. For extra tenderness, place the chicken between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until about ½ inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Make the Breading Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoned flour mixture will give your chicken that perfect crispy crust.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor, while the egg helps the breading stick.
4. Bread the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken in the dry flour mixture, then dip it into the wet buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken well to ensure a thick, crunchy coating.
5. Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to about 325°F (medium heat). Fry the chicken pieces for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Keep Warm
Place the cooked chicken in a warm oven (around 200°F) to keep it hot while you prepare the gravy or finish frying the rest of the chicken.
How to Make the Perfect Creamy Gravy
Using the drippings left in the pan from frying, you can make a delicious, creamy gravy that’s the perfect complement to your chicken fried chicken.
– Pour off all but ¼ cup of the oil from the pan.
– Add ⅓ cup flour to the pan and stir constantly over medium heat for about 1 minute until the flour is absorbed and golden.
– Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
– Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Pour the gravy over the chicken just before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken
– Tenderize the chicken: Pounding the chicken thin ensures even cooking and juicy meat.
– Use buttermilk: It tenderizes and adds a subtle tang to the chicken.
– Double dredge: Flour, then wet, then flour again creates an extra crispy crust.
– Maintain oil temperature: Keep your frying oil steady around 325°F to avoid greasy chicken.
– Use a cast iron skillet: It retains heat well and helps cook the chicken evenly.
– Make the gravy from drippings: This adds rich flavor and makes the meal complete.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken fried chicken is wonderful served with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, or buttery corn on the cob. Don’t forget plenty of napkins—the crispy crust and creamy gravy can get delightfully messy!
Chicken fried chicken is a delicious, comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. By following these easy steps, you’ll have a crispy, juicy, flavorful meal that everyone will love. So grab your skillet, get frying, and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality right in your kitchen!