The tantalizing aroma of chicken fried chicken wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken that crackles with every bite, revealing tender, juicy meat within. This dish is comfort food at its finest, a plateful of nostalgia that dances on your taste buds.
Growing up, chicken fried chicken graced our dinner table during family gatherings, filling the room with laughter and stories. I remember my aunt’s secret recipe that made everyone fight for the last piece. Perfect for Sunday dinners or any occasion when you need a little extra love on your plate, this dish promises an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Chicken fried chicken is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor
- Its crispy exterior and juicy interior create an irresistible texture contrast
- Visually appealing with its golden crust, it steals the show on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to serve with various sides or sauces, making it a family favorite
Family and friends have always raved about my chicken fried chicken; it’s the dish that never fails to impress.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust quantity based on your crowd size.
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Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and adds a rich flavor; don’t skip it!
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All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crispy coating; sifted for a lighter texture works wonders.
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Cornstarch: Mix it with flour for extra crunch; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
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Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Season generously; they elevate the flavor profile immensely.
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Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Peanut): Choose an oil with a high smoke point for frying.
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Optional Gravy Ingredients (Butter, Flour, Chicken Broth): For those who like to enhance their dish with gravy—because why not?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing your boneless chicken breasts into a bowl of buttermilk. Allow them to soak for at least one hour in the refrigerator for maximum tenderness.
Mix Your Coating: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour and cornstarch along with salt, pepper, and paprika. This seasoned mixture will create that heavenly crunchy exterior we all crave.
Dredge the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off before dredging in your flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated; this is where the magic happens!
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering—around 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures crispy perfection without being greasy.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place breaded chicken pieces into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry each side for approximately 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through—don’t forget to flip!
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer your beautiful chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides or drizzle with homemade gravy if you’re feeling fancy!
Now you hold in your hands not just a recipe but a ticket to flavor town! Enjoy every crispy bite of this delightful comfort food masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This chicken fried chicken recipe combines crispy textures with juicy flavors, making every bite a delight
- The secret lies in the double-breading technique, ensuring that every piece is packed with crunch and taste
- Plus, it’s easier than you think!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then bread it. Fry in hot oil for the perfect golden crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Try adding cayenne pepper to your flour for a kick or top with your favorite gravy for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature at 165°F
- Letting the chicken rest after frying helps maintain moisture
- Always ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to prevent sogginess
The first time I made chicken fried chicken, my friends devoured it within minutes and demanded seconds. Their smiles were priceless, reminding me how food brings us together!
FAQ
What is chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken features breaded and fried chicken, similar to Southern fried chicken but often served with gravy.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your dish.
How do I make a gluten-free version?
Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a deliciously crispy result.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Indulge in the crispy, golden perfection of chicken fried chicken—a true comfort food that brings back cherished memories. This dish features tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a crunchy coating, making it the star of any meal. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your loved ones with every delicious bite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: gravy ingredients (2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp flour, 1 cup chicken broth)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture until well-coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
- Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with optional gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
