Chicken Fried Chicken

Easy and delicious, this Chicken Fried Chicken is a quick and flavorful dinnertime recipe that brings the whole family to the table. With minimal ingredients, it’s a simple and comforting meal suitable for various occasions like weeknight dinners or family gatherings. What sets this recipe apart is its crispy coating combined with a rich gravy, making it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This Chicken Fried Chicken requires just 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.
• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up.
• Family Favorite: The crispy exterior and tender chicken inside create a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or even on a sandwich – the options are endless!
• Comfort Food at its Best: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture by frying the chicken evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining dry ingredients and wet mixtures without any mess.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Helps in safely placing chicken into hot oil and removing it once cooked.

Ingredients

Easy and delicious this Chicken Fried Chicken is a quick and flavorful dinnertime recipe that brings the whole family to the table with minimal ingredients. Here’s what you need:

For the Chicken

• 6-8 thin sliced chicken breasts
• 2 cups flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 Tbs hot sauce

For Frying and Gravy

• Oil for frying
• 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
• 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
• 2 cups milk
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken

Step 1: Heat Oil

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove until it reaches 325°F. Ensure there’s enough oil to cover the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups of flour
2. 2 tsp baking powder
3. 1 tsp baking soda
4. 1 tsp salt
5. 1 tsp pepper
6. 1 tsp garlic powder

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 ½ cups buttermilk
2. 1 egg
3. 1 Tbs hot sauce

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture first. Then dip it into the egg mixture before returning it back to the flour mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure an even coating.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove them and let them drain on paper towel-lined plates as you repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

In a large pan, add in your reserved oil (about ¼ inch deep) from frying on medium-high heat:
1. Stir in your reserved flour until absorbed and cook for about one minute.
2. Slowly add in your milk while whisking until thickened.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Pour gravy over individual pieces of chicken before serving for an extra touch of flavor! Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Serving Chicken Fried Chicken is a delightful experience that can bring the whole family together. This dish is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing for various sides and garnishes to enhance the meal.

Classic Southern Style

• Collard Greens: A traditional pairing that adds a touch of bitterness to balance the richness of the fried chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up any gravy served with the chicken.
• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of Chicken Fried Chicken.

With a Twist

• Spicy Pickles: Adding some spicy pickles on the side gives a zesty kick that contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken.
• Apple Cider Slaw: This refreshing slaw brings crunch and brightness, making it a great accompaniment.
• Fried Green Tomatoes: Another Southern classic that pairs well with the crispy texture of Chicken Fried Chicken.

For a Casual Dinner

• Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans serve as a hearty side that works beautifully with fried dishes.
• Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide extra crunch and are perfect for dipping in gravy or hot sauce.

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How to Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

Perfecting your Chicken Fried Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Buttermilk: Soaking your chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while adding flavor.
• Double Dredging: For extra crispy chicken, dredge the meat in flour, dip it in egg, and then dredge it again before frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your frying oil at 325°F to ensure even cooking without burning the crust.
• Rest After Frying: Letting your chicken rest on paper towels after frying helps retain its crispiness by removing excess oil.
• Season Your Flour: Don’t forget to season your flour mixture well; this adds crucial flavor to every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Chicken

Pairing delicious sides with your Chicken Fried Chicken can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the hot, crispy chicken.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a light yet flavorful companion.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil bring a savory element to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements fried dishes perfectly; grill or boil for best results.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Fried Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Buttermilk: Using regular milk instead of buttermilk can lead to dry chicken. Always use buttermilk for a moist and flavorful result.
• Improper Coating Technique: Not pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken can cause it to fall off during frying. Make sure to coat well by pressing the flour onto the meat.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
• Ignoring Oil Temperature: Cooking at a temperature that’s too low will result in greasy chicken. Use a thermometer to keep your oil at 325°F for best results.
• Rushing the Gravy: Adding milk too quickly can lead to lumps in your gravy. Gradually whisk in the milk for a smooth texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Fried Chicken

• Freeze cooked Chicken Fried Chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chicken Fried Chicken.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well too! They will give you a juicier bite due to their higher fat content.

How do I make my gravy smoother?

To ensure a smooth gravy, whisk in the milk gradually while cooking and make sure there are no lumps before it thickens.

What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Fried Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers delicious flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or serving it with your favorite sides!