Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that brings the whole family to the table, look no further than this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe. With minimal ingredients and a comforting, crispy coating, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is a hit for several reasons:

1. Flavorful and Crispy: The chicken is perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp.
2. Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the taste, making it a great option for family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 6-8 thin sliced chicken breasts
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Gravy:

• 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or a large pan, heat oil to 325°F. Ensure the oil is a few inches deep to properly fry the chicken.

2. Prepare the Dry Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This dry mixture will form the crispy coating.

3. Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the chicken.

4. Dredge the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Press down to ensure the flour sticks well to the chicken.

5. Fry the Chicken

Place the chicken in the hot oil and fry each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all chicken breasts.

6. Prepare the Gravy

In a large pan, add 1/4 cup of the reserved oil from frying. Heat on medium-high and stir in the flour until absorbed, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly add in the milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve

Pour the gravy over individual chicken pieces before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Fried Chicken!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken

• Use Thin Sliced Chicken: This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in both the flour and the gravy.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent 325°F for perfect frying.
• Double Dredging: This ensures a thicker, crispier coating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Fry in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
• Using Cold Chicken: Let the chicken come to room temperature before frying to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Let the dredged chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Classic Plate: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a drizzle of gravy.
• Sandwich Style: Place the chicken on a bun with pickles and mayo for a delicious sandwich.
• Family Platter: Arrange the chicken on a large platter with various dipping sauces and sides.

Storage and Reheating

To Store: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To Reheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain the crispy texture.

Food Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed vegetables add a healthy balance.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.

FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They will be juicier and have a slightly different flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk? A: You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? A: While baking will not yield the same crispiness, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Its quick preparation time and flavorful results make it a go-to dish for any night of the week. Give this recipe a try, share it with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes!

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