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+ servings

Chicken Fried Chicken

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

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.