Indulge in Chicken Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Tonight!

Introduction to Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken Fried Chicken is a beloved Southern dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of folks across the country. This irresistible recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts that are dipped in a seasoned buttermilk batter, breaded to crispy perfection, and then fried to golden-brown deliciousness. Topped with a rich, velvety gravy, Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Table of Contents

What is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a dish that originated in the Southern United States, where it’s considered a regional specialty. It takes the classic fried chicken concept and applies it to boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of the traditional bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. The result is a dish that delivers all the crunchy, savory goodness of fried chicken with the added benefit of a more tender, lean protein.

A Brief History of Chicken Fried Chicken

The roots of Chicken Fried Chicken can be traced back to the early settlers of the American South, who brought with them techniques for frying chicken that had been developed in parts of Europe. Over time, this method of cooking chicken evolved and became a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. Today, Chicken Fried Chicken is enjoyed by people all over the world, but it remains closely associated with the rich culinary traditions of the American South.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What sets this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe apart is the attention to detail in both the preparation and the execution. By pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, we ensure that they cook evenly and stay juicy and tender throughout. The seasoned flour and buttermilk batter create a perfectly crispy crust that seals in the flavor, while the homemade gravy takes the dish to new heights of deliciousness. With easy-to-follow instructions and a few simple tricks, you’ll be able to create a Chicken Fried Chicken masterpiece right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken

Essential Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Chicken Fried Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 6 to 8 thin-sliced chicken breasts
• 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 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying

Optional Ingredients and Variations

If you want to add a little extra zip to your Chicken Fried Chicken, consider including a tablespoon of hot sauce in the buttermilk mixture. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Some people also enjoy adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoned flour for a bit of a spicy kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have buttermilk on hand? No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 1/2 cups of regular milk with 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle, and you’ve got a perfect buttermilk replacement. And if you’re not a fan of chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Preparation Steps for Chicken Fried Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy and tender throughout.

Setting Up Breading Stations

In one shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce (if using). This will create your two-step breading process – the chicken will first be dipped in the buttermilk mixture, then dredged in the seasoned flour.

Breading the Chicken

Dip each pounded chicken breast into the buttermilk mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Then, transfer the chicken to the bowl of seasoned flour and press firmly to ensure a complete coating. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces, creating a crispy, well-seasoned crust.

Heating the Oil

Pour enough oil into a large skillet to create a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. You’ll know the oil is ready when a sprinkle of flour sizzles immediately upon hitting the pan.</

Cooking the Chicken Fried Chicken

Frying the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Testing for Doneness

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also test for doneness by gently pressing on the chicken. When it’s cooked through, the center should feel firm and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Draining and Resting the Chicken

Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to allow the excess oil to drain off. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving – this will help the crust set and the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Making the Gravy

Ingredients for the Gravy

To create the rich, creamy gravy that’s the perfect accompaniment to Chicken Fried Chicken, you’ll need the following:

• 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying the chicken
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Gravy Preparation

Once you’ve fried the chicken and transferred it to a plate, pour off all but 1/4 cup of the oil left in the skillet. Over medium heat, whisk the flour into the reserved oil, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling but not browned. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue cooking the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 minutes. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Perfect Gravy

For an extra-smooth gravy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving. If the gravy seems too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk until you reach the desired consistency. And if you want to add even more flavor, try stirring in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of dried herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes to Pair

Chicken Fried Chicken is the star of the show, but it’s always better with some tasty side dishes to round out the meal. Some classic pairings include:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttery, flaky biscuits
• Crisp, cool coleslaw
• Tender, sautéed green beans
• Buttered corn on the cob

Presentation Tips

For a beautiful plate, serve the Chicken Fried Chicken hot and fresh, with the creamy gravy drizzled generously over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. You can also serve the gravy in a small bowl on the side, allowing your guests to add as much or as little as they’d like.

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any Chicken Fried Chicken leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven until hot and crispy, and reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well – just be sure to wrap it tightly and it will keep for up to 2-3 months.

FAQs About Chicken Fried Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a delicious alternative to breasts for Chicken Fried Chicken. The dark meat of the thighs will stay extra juicy and flavorful, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How do I make it gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Chicken Fried Chicken, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the flour for the breading. Just be sure to check the labels of any other ingredients to ensure they’re also gluten-free.

What is the best oil for frying?

For the crispiest, golden-brown Chicken Fried Chicken, we recommend using an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. Peanut oil and avocado oil also work well. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can impart an undesirable flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While Chicken Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare some components in advance to save time. The chicken can be pounded and breaded up to a day ahead of time, then stored in the refrigerator until ready to fry. The gravy can also be made a day in advance and reheated just before serving.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Southern Fried Chicken
• Biscuits and Gravy
• Chicken and Waffles
• Country Fried Steak

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Chicken is a true Southern classic that never fails to satisfy. With its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender interior, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. By following this easy, step-by-step recipe, you can bring the flavors of the South right to your own kitchen. So gather your family and friends, fire up the skillet, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Chicken Fried Chicken!

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