Chicken Fried Chicken Dish: A Delicious Twist on a Southern Classic

Chicken Fried Chicken is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This dish, with its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, is a true Southern classic that has won the hearts of many. Originating from the Southern United States, Chicken Fried Chicken is often served with creamy gravy, making it a staple in family gatherings and Sunday dinners. I love how this dish combines the familiar flavors of fried chicken with the heartiness of a home-cooked meal, creating a delightful experience for the taste buds.

People adore Chicken Fried Chicken not just for its incredible taste and texture, but also for its convenience. It’s a dish that can be prepared for a casual weeknight dinner or dressed up for a special occasion. The crispy coating provides a satisfying crunch, while the moist chicken ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/4 cup milk (for gravy)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for gravy)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
• 1 cup chicken broth (for gravy)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for gravy)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and add the hot sauce if you’re using it. This will not only tenderize the chicken but also infuse it with flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for the best results. 2. **Prepare the Coating**: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This seasoned flour will give your chicken that delicious crispy coating.

Cooking Process

3. **Heat the Oil**: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go. 4. **Dredge the Chicken**: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Let any excess buttermilk drip off, then dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly, pressing the flour onto the chicken to create a thick crust. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate. 5. **Fry the Chicken**: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook each piece for about 5-7 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil.

Making the Gravy

6. **Prepare the Roux**: In the same skillet used for frying the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of flour, whisking continuously to combine. Cook the roux for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown, which will help develop the flavor. 7. **Add the Liquid**: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth. Bring the gravy to a simmer, allowing it to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. 8. **Season the Gravy**: Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Assembling the Dish

9. **Serve the Chicken**: Once the chicken is fried and the gravy is ready, it’s time to plate up! Place a piece of the crispy fried chicken on a plate. 10. **Add the Gravy**: Generously ladle the creamy gravy over the chicken. You can also serve the gravy on the side if you prefer. 11. **Garnish and Enjoy**: For a touch of color, you can garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve your chicken fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw,

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Fried Chicken dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The crispy, golden-brown exterior paired with the tender, juicy chicken inside creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Chicken Fried Chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of collard greens for a true Southern experience. You can also switch things up by adding a drizzle of homemade gravy or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different seasonings or marinades to give the chicken a unique twist that reflects your personal taste. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Print