Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

If you crave that ultimate southern comfort food that’s crunchy, juicy, and wildly satisfying, Chicken Fried Chicken is about to become your new weeknight hero. Picture golden, crispy chicken cutlets—tender and flavorful inside—smothered with creamy homemade gravy. Every bite delivers the coziness of Sunday supper with the irresistible crunch of classic diner fare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Chicken Fried Chicken is chosen for maximum flavor and that signature satisfying crunch. From the juicy chicken coated in flavorful seasoning to the just-spicy-enough batter and irresistibly creamy gravy—each component brings its own irresistible magic to the plate.

• Thin Sliced Chicken Breasts: Using thin slices means the chicken cooks up quickly and stays perfectly juicy—no dryness here!
• Flour: All-purpose flour gives the chicken that hearty southern-style breading and helps create those irresistible crispy ridges.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: A dash of both makes the breading extra light and beautifully crisp—never heavy or soggy.
• Salt & Pepper: Classic seasoning for both flour and gravy, making every bite flavorful inside and out.
• Garlic Powder: Just enough to add depth and a savory backbone to every crunchy bite.
• Buttermilk: The secret to tangy, ultra-moist chicken and a golden-brown crust that clings.
• Egg: Helps the breading stick and enriches everything for a tender coating.
• Hot Sauce: Adds a touch of southern heat without overwhelming the rest of the flavors—totally customizable!
• Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point (like vegetable or canola) for safe, even cooking and irresistibly crisp edges.
• For the Gravy: Reserved Frying Oil, Flour, Milk, and Salt & Pepper: This is where all those big southern flavors come together to make chicken fried chicken truly sing.

Variations

Chicken Fried Chicken is endlessly adaptable—whether you crave more spice, want to lighten it up, or need to make it gluten-free, there’s a twist for everyone. Don’t be shy about making it your own!

• Spicier Breading: Add extra hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture or sprinkle a little cayenne pepper into the flour for a fiery kick.
• Gluten-Free: Swap in a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for the breading and gravy—you’ll still get all that crunch and comfort.
• Oven-Fried: For a lighter spin, spray the breaded chicken with oil and bake at 425ºF on a wire rack until golden and crispy.
• Alternative Proteins: Try this technique with boneless pork chops or even extra-firm tofu for a fun twist!

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Breading Stations

Begin by setting up two large shallow bowls—one for the seasoned flour, and one for the buttermilk mixture. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the other, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until smooth. This organized setup keeps the workflow smooth and the mess to a minimum!

Step 2: Dredge Chicken for Maximum Crunch

Working with one chicken breast at a time, dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, dip into the buttermilk/egg bath, then press it firmly back into the flour so every nook gets fully coated. For the signature “chicken fried” crust, don’t rush this step—press down so the breading clings like a cozy blanket.

Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat a few inches of oil in a deep fryer or sturdy skillet to 325°F (use a thermometer if you can). Fry each piece for 3–5 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and irresistibly crisp—don’t crowd the pan! Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, repeating as needed with the rest of the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Gravy

Pour about 1/4 cup of your reserved frying oil into a clean pan and heat over medium-high. Stir in flour and cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go for that just-right balance of richness and spice. This gravy is truly what takes Chicken Fried Chicken over the top!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Serve each golden-fried cutlet with a generous ladle of warm gravy. It’s the soulful, southern comfort meal you’ll want to linger over—don’t forget extra napkins!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Garnishes

Add a generous shower of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for color, or a pinch of smoked paprika on the gravy for a gentle kick and inviting pop of red. A wedge of lemon on the side will cut the richness if you crave that extra brightness—little touches make Chicken Fried Chicken irresistibly pretty and fresh!

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with old-school mashed potatoes and green beans, but buttery corn on the cob, collard greens, or a crisp slaw also make perfect partners. Flaky buttermilk biscuits or cornbread are right at home next to a platter of Chicken Fried Chicken—ideal for mopping up that glorious gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Chicken Fried Chicken sliders—tuck smaller cutlets and a drizzle of gravy into soft dinner rolls. Or, slice the chicken into strips and make the ultimate southern “chicken & gravy” loaded fries. On a buffet, pile cutlets high on a platter with a gravy boat for guests to pour their own, family-style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken and gravy separately in airtight containers. The chicken will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, staying crispy enough for quick lunches or a repeat southern supper.

Freezing

Chicken Fried Chicken freezes beautifully! Let the fried chicken cool, then lay the cutlets flat on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. Gravy can be frozen in portioned containers—just know it may need a quick whisk when reheated to get creamy again.

Reheating

To keep that delicious crunch, reheat chicken in a 375ºF oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes until hot and crispy. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, whisking until smooth before pouring over your revived Chicken Fried Chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll treat yourself—and your loved ones—to a plate of homemade Chicken Fried Chicken soon. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with warmth, brings smiles to every face, and turns even an ordinary weeknight into something special and memorable. Happy frying!

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