Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Craving comfort food that hits all the right notes? Chicken Fried Chicken is the answer! This classic Southern dish delivers everything you love about fried chicken—crispy, golden crust on the outside and juicy, tender chicken on the inside—but it's simpler to make than traditional bone-in fried chicken. Paired with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Read on to discover the secrets to perfecting Chicken Fried Chicken, from the best ingredients to pro tips for frying up this irresistible meal.

What Is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a variation of traditional fried chicken, but without the bone. It typically uses boneless chicken breasts that are pounded thin, dredged in a seasoned flour mixture, then fried to crispy perfection. The name comes from the technique, which is similar to how chicken-fried steak is made. It's often served with country gravy for a truly indulgent Southern meal.

Ingredients List for Chicken Fried Chicken

To make the perfect Chicken Fried Chicken, you'll need a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – 4 large chicken breasts, pounded thin for even cooking.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups, for the crispy coating.
• Cornstarch – ¼ cup, to make the crust extra crispy.
• Buttermilk – 1 ½ cups, for marinating the chicken and adding tenderness.
• Eggs – 2 large eggs, beaten and added to the buttermilk for extra binding.
• Hot Sauce – 1 to 2 teaspoons, optional, to add a slight kick to the buttermilk marinade.
• Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon, to give the coating some extra fluff.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon, for added flavor.
• Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon, a staple seasoning for savory dishes.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon, for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To taste. You'll season both the chicken and the flour coating.
• Oil for Frying – About 2 cups, depending on the size of your skillet. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well.

Substitutions and Variations

Chicken Fried Chicken is a versatile recipe that can be easily customized. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try:

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or additional hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or flour coating for a spicier version of Chicken Fried Chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use rice flour, which results in an extra crispy crust.
• Healthier Option: If you're looking to lighten up the recipe, consider pan-frying the chicken with less oil or even baking it. You can also air-fry the chicken for a lower-calorie option.
• Different Cuts of Chicken: While chicken breasts are most commonly used, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Chicken Fried Chicken may seem like a challenge, but the steps are simple and straightforward. Follow this guide for perfectly crispy and juicy results.

1. Pound the Chicken: Start by pounding your chicken breasts to about ½ inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender meat. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken, placing each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper to avoid making a mess.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and a splash of hot sauce if you're adding it for a little extra heat. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, making sure each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or even overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Coating: In another shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The cornstarch helps the coating get extra crispy, and the baking powder adds a light fluffiness.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in enough oil to cover about ½ inch of the pan. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small bit of flour in—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
5. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to make sure it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot oil, frying 2 to 3 pieces at a time depending on the size of your skillet. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can reduce the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
7. Drain the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken.
8. Make the Gravy (Optional): While the chicken rests, you can make a simple country gravy. In the same skillet, pour off most of the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons along with any crispy bits. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until smooth. Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened and season with salt and pepper.

How to Cook Chicken Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Pound and Marinate: Tenderize the chicken and marinate in a buttermilk-egg mixture for flavor and juiciness.
2. Prepare the Coating: Season your flour mixture with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat Oil: Get your oil up to temperature—around 350°F—for perfectly crispy results.
4. Dredge and Fry: Coat the chicken in seasoned flour, then fry until golden brown and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marination: Marinating in buttermilk isn’t just for flavor—it also tenderizes the chicken, so don’t skip this step!
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can drop the oil temperature, resulting in soggy rather than crispy chicken.
• Not Using a Thermometer: Ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F is crucial to avoid undercooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve Chicken Fried Chicken hot, fresh from the fryer, for the best texture. Pair it with Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits, and don’t forget the gravy! Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or chives for a pop of color.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken Fried Chicken is best served with classic Southern comfort food sides. Here are a few options:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with butter or gravy make an excellent pairing.
• Biscuits: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are a delicious and traditional accompaniment.
• Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy coleslaw helps balance the richness of the fried chicken.
• Country Gravy: A must-have for drizzling over the chicken and potatoes.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

For a rustic Southern feel, serve Chicken Fried Chicken on a wooden board or large platter, with gravy on the side for guests to drizzle over the chicken. If you’re serving it family-style, add a bowl of mashed potatoes and a basket of biscuits for a complete meal.

Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe Tips

• Double Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, you can double-dip the chicken. After dredging the chicken in flour, dip it back into the buttermilk and again into the flour mixture before frying.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is cooked through without cutting into it and losing all the juices.
• Keep It Warm: If you’re frying large batches, keep the finished chicken warm in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.

Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! You can air-fry the chicken at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier version.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Fried Chicken?
A: Absolutely! After frying, let the chicken cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Chicken is a mouthwatering Southern comfort dish that’s easy to make at home. With its juicy interior, crispy exterior, and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving fried chicken without the bones. Serve it with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or coleslaw for the ultimate comfort food experience, and don’t forget to drizzle on some creamy country gravy! Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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