Best EVER Chicken Fried Chicken 1

Chicken Fried Chicken

Best EVER Chicken Fried Chicken 1

When it comes to Southern comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like Chicken Fried Chicken. This dish holds a special place in my heart—and stomach. I remember my grandmother whipping this up in her old cast-iron skillet, flour dust floating in the air and the unmistakable sizzle of chicken meeting hot oil. It was always served with creamy, peppery gravy and a side of mashed potatoes, and it never failed to bring the whole family to the table.

Now, I’m sharing this timeless classic with you. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, this recipe delivers that iconic crispy crust, juicy chicken, and rich, savory gravy in under an hour. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a cozy midweek meal, Chicken Fried Chicken is a dish that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Chicken

  • Crispy and juicy: The double-dip breading creates a perfect crust without drying out the meat.
  • Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting favorite.
  • Easy ingredients: Most are pantry staples!
  • Versatile: Ideal for both summer dinners with fresh greens or winter meals with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Best EVER Chicken Fried Chicken 2

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Chicken:

  • 6–8 thin-sliced chicken breasts
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1½ cups buttermilk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust for spice preference)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)

For the Gravy:

  • ¼ cup reserved oil from frying
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 325°F (163°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the right frying temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Coatings

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until fully combined.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well—this creates that extra-crispy crust.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Fry the chicken in batches for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Making the Classic White Gravy

Step 1: Start with the Drippings

Reserve ¼ cup of the oil used for frying and heat it in a clean skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.

Step 3: Whisk and Thicken

Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens, then season generously with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

  • Summer Sidekicks: Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a crisp cucumber salad.
  • Winter Warmers: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for a hearty meal.
  • Upgrade the Meal: Top with a fried egg or layer on a biscuit for a Southern brunch twist.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken

  • Thin-sliced chicken cooks faster and stays juicy—pound it evenly if needed.
  • Double-dip breading ensures a crispy crust. Press the flour into the chicken well.
  • Use a thermometer for oil—too hot and the coating burns, too cool and it soaks up oil.
  • Let it rest on a wire rack if you want extra crispiness instead of a paper towel.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour mix.
  • Buttermilk Marinade: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight for extra tenderness.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both dredging and gravy.

Make-Ahead & Storage

  • To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat: Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes to revive crispiness.
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze fried (but ungravy-ed) chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay moist.

Is this like chicken-fried steak?
Yes, but with chicken instead of beef. The breading and gravy method is the same.

What oil is best for frying?
Peanut or vegetable oil works best due to high smoke points and neutral flavor.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes scream “Southern comfort” like Chicken Fried Chicken. It’s crispy, creamy, and absolutely crave-worthy. This recipe proves that you don’t need a deep fryer or fancy ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope this meal becomes a staple on your dinner table too. Serve it with all your favorite sides, and don’t forget a generous pour of that peppery gravy!

Chicken Fried Chicken

Classic Southern Chicken Fried Chicken recipe with crispy coating and creamy gravy. A comforting, family-friendly dinner favorite!
Course Chicken, Dinner, Latest, Lunch, Main, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Chicken Fried Chicken
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 6 –8 thin-sliced chicken breasts
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • cups buttermilk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce adjust for spice preference
  • Oil for frying vegetable or peanut oil

For the Gravy:

  • ¼ cup reserved oil from frying
  • cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make Chicken Fried Chicken

    Step 1: Heat the Oil

    • In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 325°F (163°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the right frying temperature.

    Step 2: Prepare the Coatings

    • In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
    • In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until fully combined.

    Step 3: Bread the Chicken

    • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it in the buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour. Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well—this creates that extra-crispy crust.

    Step 4: Fry Until Golden

    • Fry the chicken in batches for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

    Making the Classic White Gravy

      Step 1: Start with the Drippings

      • Reserve ¼ cup of the oil used for frying and heat it in a clean skillet over medium-high heat.

      Step 2: Create the Roux

      • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.

      Step 3: Whisk and Thicken

      • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens, then season generously with salt and pepper.
      Best EVER Chicken Fried Chicken pinterest