The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture perfectly golden-brown pieces of chicken fried chicken sizzling in hot oil, their crispy coating glistening under the light—can you smell it? This dish is not just food; it’s a delicious memory waiting to be created and shared.
As I stand in my kitchen reminiscing about family gatherings filled with laughter and chatter, I can’t help but smile. Chicken fried chicken was always the star of the show—juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners or whenever you need a little comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful chicken fried chicken is not only super easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The golden crust makes it visually appealing and irresistible to any guest
- You can serve it as a main dish or even slice it for sandwiches!
Sharing this dish brings back memories of family cookouts where everyone’s favorite question was always, “Is there more?”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work great; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Buttermilk: This tenderizes the meat beautifully—don’t skip it unless you’re feeling adventurous!
- Flour: All-purpose flour creates that magical crispy coating we all crave.
- Cornstarch: A secret ingredient that enhances crispiness—trust me on this one.
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple yet essential for enhancing flavor; feel free to get creative!
- Oil for Frying: Use vegetable or peanut oil for the best frying results.
- Optional Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder): Add these to elevate your flavor game!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Marinating the Chicken: Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes so they become tender and flavorful.
Preparing the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix flour and cornstarch along with salt and pepper. You may sprinkle some paprika or garlic powder if you’re feeling fancy!
Dredging Time!: Remove each piece of marinated chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Then dredge it thoroughly in your seasoned flour mixture until well coated.
Heating the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test by dropping in a bit of flour—it should sizzle!
Frying Until Golden Brown: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry until they turn beautifully golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side.
Draining Excess Oil: Once cooked through—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)—remove them from oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb extra grease.
Now you have an incredible batch of crispy chicken fried chicken ready to impress! Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for that true Southern experience.
Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about those treasured family moments while indulging in this classic comfort food!
You Must Know
- This chicken fried chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and nostalgia
- The golden crust and juicy chicken create a symphony of flavors, making any meal feel like a special occasion
- Pair it with your favorite sides for a true feast!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken, then dredge it in flour, followed by frying until golden brown to ensure even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up with unique seasonings like smoked paprika or garlic powder for a flavor twist everyone will love.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for crispy results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For effortless cooking, use a thermometer to check if your chicken is cooked through
- Letting the chicken rest before cutting keeps it juicy
- Always prepare extra flour for dredging if you’re making a big batch
Memories of my first attempt at chicken fried chicken still make me chuckle; I ended up with more flour on my face than on the chicken!
FAQ
What type of chicken is best for making chicken fried chicken?
Chicken breasts or thighs work best because they stay juicy and tender while frying.
Can I bake instead of fry my chicken fried chicken?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes for a healthier option while still delicious.
How do I know when my chicken fried chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety and perfection.
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken
Crispy chicken fried chicken, tender and flavorful, is the ultimate comfort food that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper (add optional spices if desired).
- Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet to about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
