Imagine biting into a golden-brown piece of chicken fried chicken, its crispy coating cracking to reveal juicy meat inside. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a sweet serenade, making everyone rush to the table. If you think that sounds divine, just wait until you taste it!
This dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating unforgettable memories. Picture yourself gathered around the dining table, laughter ringing in the air as friends and family dig into this southern classic. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners or any time you want to impress your loved ones with a little culinary magic.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried chicken is simple to prepare, making it ideal for any weeknight dinner
- The flavor is rich and satisfying with a crispy exterior that everyone loves
- Visually appealing with its golden-brown hue, it will certainly catch everyone’s eye on the dinner table
- Versatile enough to serve with various sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw
A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.
The first time I made this dish, my kids declared me “the best chef in the universe” for an hour straight!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
- Buttermilk: Essential for tenderizing; use fresh buttermilk for best results and extra flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This creates that crunchy crust we all love; sift before measuring for even coating.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; sprinkle generously into your flour mix for a savory kick.
- Paprika: Adds color and depth; I prefer smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together; season each layer liberally.
- Oil for Frying: Use vegetable or canola oil; it should be hot enough to create bubbles when you add the chicken.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Chicken: Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least an hour.
Create Your Flour Mixture: In another bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Dredge the Chicken: Take each piece of soaked chicken out of the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Then coat each piece thoroughly in your flour mixture.
Heat Your Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough oil to cover about half an inch deep. Wait until it shimmers—this means it’s ready!
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add your dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until they become golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side.
Drain and Rest: Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove from skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
Now you’re ready to serve up some amazing chicken fried chicken! Enjoy it hot with your favorite sides!
You Must Know
- Chicken fried chicken is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug!
- The crispy coating gives way to juicy chicken that’s absolutely delightful
- Remember, the right seasoning elevates this comfort food from good to unforgettable
- It’s a classic that always brings smiles at the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken for flavor, then dredge in seasoned flour before frying. Cook in hot oil until golden-brown and crispy, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Add Your TouchDiscover the joy of making chicken fried chicken at home with this easy and delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends.
Consider swapping regular flour for gluten-free options or adding some paprika for extra spice. You can also toss in herbs like thyme or rosemary to personalize the flavor.
Storing & ReheatingDiscover the joy of making chicken fried chicken at home with this easy and delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends.
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F until heated through for maximum crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your oil at the right temperature (around 350°F); too low will make it soggy
- Let the chicken rest after frying for crispier skin
- Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; it leads to uneven cooking!
Sometimes, I think my love for chicken fried chicken stems from childhood memories of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, sharing laughter and good food.
FAQDiscover the joy of making chicken fried chicken at home with this easy and delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends.
What is the difference between fried chicken and chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken has a breaded coating similar to fried chicken but is typically served with gravy.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken works great and cooks faster. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make the gravy for chicken fried chicken?
Use drippings from the frying pan combined with flour and milk to create a delicious gravy.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Savor the crispy, juicy goodness of homemade chicken fried chicken, a southern classic perfect for impressing family and friends at any dinner table.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: Cover chicken breasts with buttermilk and soak for at least 1 hour.
- 2. Prepare the flour mixture: In a bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Dredge the chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- 4. Heat oil: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil until it shimmers (about half an inch deep).
- 5. Fry: Carefully place chicken in hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
- 6. Drain: Remove cooked chicken and drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (150g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
