Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Craving crispy, golden fried chicken with all the delicious flavors of Southern comfort food? Look no further than this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe. It’s the perfect balance of juicy, tender chicken with a crunchy, seasoned coating that’s pan-fried to perfection. This dish is ideal for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or when you’re just in the mood for some old-fashioned fried chicken goodness. Pair it with some creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love. Ready to learn how to make the best Chicken Fried Chicken? Read on for the full recipe!

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What is Chicken Fried Chicken?

Chicken Fried Chicken is a popular Southern dish that consists of boneless chicken breasts that are seasoned, breaded, and fried in a way that mimics traditional fried chicken. Unlike regular fried chicken, which uses bone-in pieces, chicken fried chicken is usually made with boneless cuts, making it quicker and easier to cook while still delivering that signature crunch and flavor. It’s often served with a rich, creamy gravy and classic side dishes, making it a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Ingredients List for Chicken Fried Chicken

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken and creating that crispy outer layer.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
• 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder for the flour and breadcrumbs.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth to the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – For extra seasoning and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky, earthy flavor to the breading.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a little heat.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the chicken and breading.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a bit of bite.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the breading puff up and stay crispy.
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional) – For marinating the chicken and giving it a mild kick.
• Vegetable oil for frying – You’ll need enough oil to shallow fry the chicken, about ½ inch deep in the pan.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make adjustments to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’ll be juicier but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, you can mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the flour. It gives the chicken an even crispier texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure that the breadcrumbs are also gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper and add extra hot sauce to the marinade if you love spicy food.
• Air Fryer Option: Instead of frying in oil, you can cook the chicken in an air fryer for a healthier version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a simple guide to making your Chicken Fried Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about ½ inch thick. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then submerge them in the buttermilk mixture. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while the hot sauce adds flavor.
3. Prepare the Breading Station: In a large shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Set aside.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be around 350°F for frying, but you can test it by dropping a little flour into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
5. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to make sure it adheres well.
6. Fry the Chicken: Working in batches if necessary, carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should read 165°F). Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken less crispy.
7. Drain the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken.
8. Serve: Serve your Chicken Fried Chicken with a drizzle of gravy or alongside mashed potatoes, biscuits, or coleslaw.

How to Cook Chicken Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Marinate the Chicken – Marinating the chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture. The acids in the buttermilk help tenderize the meat, making it super juicy.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Flour Dredge – Seasoning the flour is key to flavorful fried chicken. Make sure you generously season the flour with salt, pepper, and spices.
3. Step 3: Fry the Chicken – Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature, ensuring that the coating stays crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Step 4: Drain Properly – Once fried, place the chicken on paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil and retain its crispiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: When frying chicken, always fry in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
• Skipping the Marinate: Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade. It adds moisture and helps the coating stick to the chicken.
• Using the Wrong Oil: Make sure to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, to avoid burning the chicken.
• Not Pounding the Chicken: If you skip pounding the chicken to an even thickness, it may cook unevenly, leaving some parts dry and others undercooked.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve your Chicken Fried Chicken with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, coleslaw, or cornbread. For a more gourmet touch, you can top the chicken with a drizzle of honey or serve it over a bed of creamy grits. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken Fried Chicken is best served hot and crispy right after frying. Serve it with a side of creamy gravy for dipping or drizzle it over the top. Pair with Southern sides like green beans, macaroni and cheese, or collard greens for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Fried Chicken

For a rustic presentation, serve the chicken on wooden boards or cast iron skillets. You can also serve the chicken stacked on a plate, topped with a dollop of homemade gravy and a sprig of parsley. If serving at a gathering, consider serving the chicken in a large basket lined with parchment paper for a laid-back, picnic-style vibe.

Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use a Thermometer: Ensure the oil stays at the right temperature (around 350°F). Too cold, and the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy; too hot, and it will burn before cooking through.
• Rest the Chicken: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack to maintain its crispness. Don’t cover it with foil, as this traps moisture and softens the crust.
• Keep It Warm: If you’re frying in batches and want to keep the chicken warm, place it on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Fried Chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray, and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What is the difference between Chicken Fried Chicken and Country Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is usually served with a white cream gravy, while Country Fried Chicken is typically served with a brown gravy. Both are similar in preparation but have slight differences in the type of gravy used.

Can I bake Chicken Fried Chicken?
While traditional Chicken Fried Chicken is pan-fried, you can bake it for a healthier version. Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate Southern comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy, flavorful crust. This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for crispy fried chicken, and it's easier to make than traditional bone-in fried chicken. Whether you're serving it with gravy and mashed potatoes or keeping it simple with coleslaw, Chicken Fried Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

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