Delicious Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Name: Delicious Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Published: February 7, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You’ll Love This chicken fried chicken

Ultimate Comfort Food: The warm and hearty flavors of chicken fried chicken evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness, making it the perfect dish for cozy nights in or family gatherings.
Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll impress your friends and family in no time.
Versatile Dish: Whether served with mashed potatoes or alongside a fresh salad, this dish adapts seamlessly to any meal setting or occasion.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of seasonings and crispy coating provides an explosion of flavor that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for chicken fried chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 3-4 pieces are ideal; ensure they’re evenly sized for consistent cooking.
All-Purpose Flour: This will create the crispy coating; season it well to enhance the overall flavor.
Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind the flour mixture to the chicken for extra crunchiness.
Milk: Use whole milk for richness; it adds moisture while frying.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that elevates the dish; adjust according to taste preferences.
Cooking Oil: Choose vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying; both have high smoke points and promote even frying.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chicken fried chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick. This step ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, add flour mixed with salt and pepper in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Reserve the third bowl for additional flour if needed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of prepared chicken into the flour mixture first, then into the egg mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off before returning it back into the flour mix for a second coating.

Step 4: Heat Your Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat, pour enough cooking oil to completely submerge half of each piece of coated chicken (about one inch deep). Heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Carefully place each piece of coated chicken into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for about five minutes per side or until they reach a beautiful golden brown color and are cooked through.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked through—check that juices run clear—remove from oil using tongs and let them drain on paper towels before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with gravy for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs can elevate your seasoning; always opt for fresh over dried where possible.
Pound Evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness helps achieve perfect doneness throughout your pieces.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping an eye on oil temperature prevents soggy coating; use a thermometer if available.

Mistakes to avoid

Not Marinating the Chicken: One common mistake is skipping the marination process. Marinating chicken not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. A simple marinade with buttermilk, salt, and spices can transform your chicken fried chicken into a juicy delight. Aim for at least an hour, but overnight marination yields the best results. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for achieving that perfect texture and taste.
Using the Wrong Oil Temperature: Cooking chicken fried chicken in oil that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your dish. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. If it’s too cold, your chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is between 350°F to 375°F. This temperature range allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Overcrowding the Frying Pan: Another mistake is overcrowding the pan during frying. When you place too much chicken in the oil at once, it lowers the temperature and leads to uneven cooking. Instead of steaming, aim for frying each piece separately or in small batches. This technique ensures that each piece gets enough contact with the hot oil for that golden crust everyone loves.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken fried chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy texture perfectly.
Green beans: A side of sautéed green beans adds freshness to your meal.
Gravy: Drizzle homemade gravy over the fried chicken for extra flavor.

FAQs

What is chicken fried chicken?

Chicken fried chicken is a delicious Southern dish that features breaded and fried boneless chicken breasts. It resembles traditional fried chicken but offers a different approach by using a more tender cut of meat. The dish often comes served with gravy and sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw, making it a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

How do I keep my chicken fried chicken crispy?

To maintain crispiness after frying your chicken fried chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet during cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents steam from making the coating soggy. Additionally, placing the cooked pieces on a wire rack instead of paper towels allows air circulation around them, which keeps them crispy until serving.

Can I bake instead of fry my chicken fried chicken?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake your chicken fried chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After breading your chicken pieces, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with my chicken fried chicken?

Chicken fried chicken pairs well with various sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens like spinach or green beans, coleslaw for crunch, or cornbread for added sweetness. You can also serve it with a drizzle of homemade gravy to enhance flavors further.

Conclusion for chicken fried chicken

In conclusion, this recipe for chicken fried chicken combines succulent flavor with a delightful crunch that will satisfy anyone’s cravings. By marinating your meat in buttermilk and using seasoned flour for dredging, you ensure a tender interior with an irresistible exterior.

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📖 Recipe Card