Easy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Chicken Fried Chicken is a Southern classic that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to deliver a crispy, juicy chicken experience with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the perfect Easy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe, complete with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the perfect Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
Cooking oil for frying (canola or peanut oil works best)

Optional Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe:

Paprika for added spice
Hot sauce to mix into the buttermilk for a spicy kick
Fresh herbs like parsley for garnishing

Choosing Your Ingredients

The key to a perfect Chicken Fried Chicken lies not just in the method, but also in the ingredients you choose. Start with high-quality chicken breasts. Organic, free-range chicken is ideal, as it tends to be juicier and more flavorful. If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before you begin.

Flour: The all-purpose flour forms the base of the coating. You can also experiment with a mix of flours, such as adding a bit of cornmeal or using gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions.

Buttermilk: Buttermilk is essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding a slight tang to the flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Spices: The garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic choices, but don’t be afraid to personalize your spice mix. You can add onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Preparation

Prep the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- If the breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures they cook evenly. An even thickness is crucial because it prevents parts of the chicken from being overcooked while other parts remain undercooked.
Seasoning:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs until well combined.
- If you’re using additional spices like paprika or cayenne pepper, mix them into the flour mixture.

Coating the Chicken

The secret to achieving a crispy crust lies in the dredging process. Double-dredging the chicken in the flour mixture is what gives the chicken its signature crunch.

Dredging Process:
- First, coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour. This first layer of flour helps the buttermilk adhere better to the chicken.
- Dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it again in the flour mixture for a double dredge. This gives the chicken its crispy exterior.
- For an extra thick crust, you can triple-dredge by repeating the process. Just ensure each layer is even and not too thick.
Frying the Chicken:
- Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should reach about 350°F (175°C) for the perfect fry. Using a deep-fry thermometer can help maintain the correct temperature.
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, frying each side for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is crucial to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.

Making the Gravy

No Southern Chicken Fried Chicken is complete without a rich, savory gravy. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients for Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Gravy Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Using the same pan you fried the chicken in (after discarding most of the oil) can add extra flavor to your gravy.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This is known as making a roux, and it’s the base of your gravy.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, and season with salt and pepper.
- For an extra rich flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or use chicken stock instead of milk.

For more tips on making the perfect gravy, you can check out this detailed guide from Bon Appétit.

Troubleshooting Gravy

Making gravy might seem intimidating, but it’s simpler than it looks. If your gravy is too thick, add more milk or chicken stock, but if it’s too thin, continue cooking it over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency. If lumps form, don’t worry – you can strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve to smooth it out.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken fried chicken. For extra flavor, try mixing in roasted garlic or sour cream into your mashed potatoes.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast to the crispy chicken. You can make a classic mayo-based slaw or try a vinegar-based version for a lighter side dish.
Biscuits: Southern-style biscuits make a great addition to the meal, especially when smothered in gravy. Buttermilk biscuits are the traditional choice, but cheddar biscuits or honey-glazed biscuits can add a unique twist.

If you’re looking for more side dish ideas, Food Network offers a great list of options that will complement your chicken fried chicken.

Beverages

Pairing the right beverage with your Chicken Fried Chicken can elevate the meal. Here are a few options:

Sweet Tea: A Southern classic, sweet tea is the perfect drink to accompany chicken fried chicken. Its sweetness balances out the savory flavors of the dish.
Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade adds a zesty contrast to the richness of the chicken and gravy.
Beer: A cold beer, especially a light lager or a wheat beer, pairs wonderfully with fried chicken. The carbonation helps cut through the richness of the dish.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Making Chicken Fried Chicken is an art. However, with these tips, you’ll be able to perfect it every time:

Oil Temperature: First and foremost, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy. On the other hand, if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through. Therefore, maintaining a consistent temperature is key.
Double Dredging: Double coating the chicken in the flour mixture ensures an extra crispy crust. For an even thicker crust, try triple dredging, but be cautious not to make it too heavy.
Resting Time: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This helps keep the crust intact and prevents it from getting soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If necessary, fry the chicken in batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

For those who are health-conscious, you can explore healthier alternatives to frying, such as baking or air-frying, by checking out this resource on Healthline.

Storing and Reheating

Chicken Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing: First, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Then, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. However, avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Variations of Chicken Fried Chicken

One of the great things about Chicken Fried Chicken is how versatile it is. Moreover, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken

For those who love a bit of heat, Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken is a must-try. Simply add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture and a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk. As a result, this will give the chicken a subtle kick without overwhelming the dish.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your tolerance for heat. Because a little goes a long way, start with a small amount and increase as needed.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a cooling side, such as coleslaw or a cucumber salad, to balance the heat.

Gluten-Free Chicken Fried Chicken

If you’re gluten-intolerant or just trying to reduce your gluten intake, you can still enjoy this dish by making a few substitutions:

Flour Substitute: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Additionally, make sure it’s a blend that includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.
Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a breaded coating, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Baked Chicken Fried Chicken

For a lighter version of this dish, try baking the chicken instead of frying it. Although it won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, it’s still delicious and healthier.

Baking Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Then, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Crisping Tip: For extra crispiness, you can spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.

Buttermilk-Brined Chicken Fried Chicken

Brining the chicken in buttermilk before dredging adds an extra layer of flavor and juiciness. Here’s how to do it:

Brining Process: Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Next, cover with buttermilk and add a few teaspoons of salt and your favorite herbs or spices (such as garlic, thyme, or rosemary). Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Dredging and Frying: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk brine, letting the excess drip off, and then proceed with the dredging and frying as usual.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this Chicken Fried Chicken:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g

Adjustments for Special Diets

If you’re following a specific diet, here are some ways to modify the recipe:

Low-Carb: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour to reduce the carbohydrate content.
Low-Fat: Opt for baking instead of frying, and use a lighter coating with less flour.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk.

FAQs

Can I make chicken fried chicken without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with buttermilk or a milk and flour mixture to help the coating adhere to the chicken. Additionally, another option is to use a mixture of water and cornstarch, or even yogurt, as a binder. This ensures that the coating sticks well without the use of eggs.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftover chicken fried chicken, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Moreover, when reheating, use the oven to maintain crispiness. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze them for up to a month. However, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I freeze chicken fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze it. First, allow the chicken to cool completely, then wrap it in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. For the best results, reheat in the oven. On the other hand, avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

To prevent the coating from falling off, ensure the chicken is well-dredged and that the oil is hot enough before frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and cause the coating to fall off. Another tip is to let the dredged chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere better.

Why does my chicken turn out greasy?

Greasy chicken is usually the result of frying at too low a temperature or overcrowding the pan. Therefore, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the chicken. Furthermore, fry in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and can add more flavor to the dish. Additionally, they tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What sides go best with Chicken Fried Chicken?

Some classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. For a lighter option, try a green salad or roasted vegetables. Furthermore, a sweet side, like baked beans or cornbread, also complements the savory flavors of the chicken.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe is a surefire way to bring a taste of the South to your dinner table. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, you’re in for a delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sides to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!