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The Ultimate Crispy Southern Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe with Creamy Gravy

There are few dishes that evoke the heartwarming essence of Southern cooking quite like Chicken Fried Chicken. It’s a true comfort food masterpiece, featuring succulent chicken breasts pounded thin, marinated in buttermilk for unparalleled tenderness, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and fried to a golden, crispy perfection. And of course, no Chicken Fried Chicken is complete without a generous smothering of rich, creamy country gravy.

This recipe isn’t just about frying chicken; it’s about creating an experience. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken while adding a subtle tang that complements the savory, spiced breading. The double-fry technique ensures an incredibly crunchy exterior that holds up beautifully, even under a luscious blanket of gravy. Whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or new to the art of frying, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to achieve restaurant-quality Chicken Fried Chicken in your own kitchen.

Prepare to delight your family and friends with this timeless classic. Pair it with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fresh green beans, or fluffy biscuits for a meal that truly sings of home.

5 from 1 vote

Chicken Fried Chicken

By:
Julia Pacheco

Crispy, golden, and truly Southern-style—this Chicken Fried Chicken is the epitome of comfort food, especially when served with a rich, creamy gravy on top.

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
40 minutes

Yields:
2 servings

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Breading

½ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Panko for extra crisp)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
½ tsp black pepper

For the Buttermilk Marinade

1 cup buttermilk
1.5 tsp salt
1 large egg

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing your chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast into a sealed gallon-sized ziplock bag. Using a meat tenderizer or a rolling pin, pound the chicken until it is flattened to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat. Once pounded, carefully remove the chicken from the bag, pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels, and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and the large egg until well combined. This is your flavorful marinade. Place the flattened chicken breasts into a fresh sealed bag or an airtight container. Pour the buttermilk marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is completely submerged. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours. For optimal flavor and tenderness, you can even marinate it overnight (up to 8 hours). If you’re short on time, you can proceed without marinating, but the flavor and texture will be significantly enhanced by this step.
While the chicken is marinating and nearing completion, consider starting on your complementary side dishes. This Chicken Fried Chicken is traditionally enjoyed with creamy mashed potatoes and savory brown gravy, so now is a great time to begin their preparation.

Step 2: Breading and Frying the Chicken

In a separate medium-sized bowl, prepare the breading mixture. Combine the ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all spices are evenly distributed. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place one chicken breast into the breading mix, flipping and pressing firmly to ensure it is completely covered with the seasoned flour mixture. Repeat with the second chicken breast.
In a sturdy frying pan or cast-iron skillet, add enough vegetable oil to cover the chicken breasts halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Using a kitchen thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for crispy, perfectly cooked chicken without burning.
Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is deeply golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Serve your perfectly crispy Chicken Fried Chicken immediately. It is enjoyed best with creamy mashed potatoes and rich brown gravy, completing this iconic Southern meal!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken

Achieving truly exceptional Chicken Fried Chicken involves a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips to ensure your dish is always a success:

The Art of the Buttermilk Marinade

Why Buttermilk? Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which works wonders as a tenderizer without making the chicken tough. It also helps the breading adhere better, resulting in a thicker, crispier crust.
Marination Time: While 1-2 hours is good, marinating for 4-8 hours (or even overnight) will yield a noticeably more tender and flavorful chicken. Don’t skip this step if you have the time!
Pounding for Evenness: Flattening the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness (around ½ inch) is crucial. This ensures that both pieces cook evenly and quickly, preventing one side from being undercooked or overcooked.

Mastering the Breading Technique

Pat Dry First: Always pat your chicken completely dry before marinating. This helps the marinade cling better. After marinating, let excess marinade drip off before breading.
Firm Press: When coating the chicken in the flour mixture, don’t be shy. Press the breading firmly onto the chicken on all sides. This creates a robust crust that won’t fall off during frying.
Double Breading (Optional but Recommended): For an extra thick and crunchy crust, you can double-bread the chicken. After the first coat of flour, dip it back into any remaining marinade (or a plain egg wash) and then back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly again.

Achieving the Ideal Frying Temperature

Use a Thermometer: This is arguably the most important tip. Maintaining an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) is essential. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will be greasy; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will drop the oil temperature significantly, leading to soggy chicken.
Fresh Oil: For the best flavor and crispiness, use fresh vegetable oil. Peanut oil or canola oil also work well.

Post-Frying Care

Drain Properly: Always place fried chicken on a wire rack set over paper towels. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, preventing the bottom from getting soggy.
Resting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and moist bite.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Pairings

Chicken Fried Chicken is a versatile main dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic Southern sides. While mashed potatoes and creamy gravy are practically mandatory, consider these other delightful options to complete your meal:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: The ultimate classic pairing. The soft potatoes and rich gravy perfectly complement the crispy chicken.
Green Beans: Southern-style green beans, slow-cooked with bacon or ham hocks, add a savory, tender contrast.
Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a simple yet satisfying addition, especially in season.
Biscuits: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up any extra gravy.
Macaroni and Cheese: A hearty side that adds another layer of comfort to this meal.

Customizing Your Chicken Fried Chicken

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste:

Spice It Up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder to the breading for a spicier kick. A dash of hot sauce in the marinade can also add depth.
Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, sage, or oregano into your breading mixture for a different aromatic profile.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Add ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder to your breading for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Different Chicken Cuts: While breasts are traditional for Chicken Fried Chicken, you can apply this technique to other cuts like boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum) and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results when reheating, avoid the microwave as it can make the chicken soggy. Instead, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and crisp again. An air fryer also works wonderfully for reheating, restoring that desirable crispiness.

Video Guide

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition, a celebration of comfort, and an undeniable crowd-pleaser. With its tender, flavorful chicken and irresistible crispy coating, it promises to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly magnificent Southern dish!