The Ultimate Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

March 15, 2025

Updated:

March 15, 2025

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Catch your breath and prepare your taste buds for one of the most soul-soothing dishes on the planet: chicken fried chicken. Imagine biting into a crispy golden crust that shatters ever-so-satisfyingly to reveal juicy, tender meat inside. It’s like a warm hug from Grandma that you can eat! This dish is a celebration of flavors where savory meets crunchy in a dance that has everyone at the table clapping for an encore.

Now, picture this: Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house, where the aroma of freshly cooked chicken wafts through the air like a siren’s call. The family gathers around as she places a platter of her famous chicken fried chicken at the center of the table. Laughter fills the room as everyone reaches for their favorite piece. Trust me; you’ll want to be part of this delicious family tradition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-follow recipe makes preparation a breeze, even for novice cooks
Each bite bursts with flavor from perfectly seasoned breading
The golden crust looks stunning on any dinner plate and is versatile enough to pair with various sides
Ideal for family dinners or gatherings when you want to impress guests without stress

When I first attempted this recipe during a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That’s high praise coming from him—he usually just orders takeout!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for about 3-4 breasts; they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
All-Purpose Flour: Use this for coating; it creates that sought-after crispy texture.
Buttermilk: Essential for marinating; it tenderizes the meat and adds richness.
Eggs: A binding agent to help flour adhere to the chicken beautifully.
Spices (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Customize these based on your taste preferences for added flavor.
Oil (Vegetable or Peanut): Choose oil with a high smoke point for frying; it ensures perfect crispiness.

For the Gravy:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your gravy.
Melted Butter: Adds richness and depth to your gravy base.
Milk or Cream: For creamy texture; adjust based on how rich you want it.
Additional Seasoning (Thyme or Garlic Powder): Optional but enhances flavor profiles nicely.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and spices. Add chicken breasts and let them soak up all that goodness for at least one hour—overnight if you’re feeling adventurous!

Prepare Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour mixed with spices, one with beaten eggs, and one empty dish waiting for some love.

Dredge Like a Pro!: Take each marinated piece of chicken and coat it first in flour, then dip into eggs before returning to flour again; double dipping is encouraged here!

Heat Your Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add enough oil to cover about half an inch. Wait until it shimmers like diamonds before adding your coated chickens.

Fry Until Golden Brown!: Cook each piece about 6-8 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Drain them on paper towels afterward.

Create Your Gravy Masterpiece!: After frying the last batch of chickens, keep some drippings in the pan. Whisk together melted butter and flour until bubbly; slowly stir in broth and milk until smooth.

You’ve officially made mouthwatering chicken fried chicken! Serve hot alongside creamy gravy and watch everyone fight over seconds—or thirds!

Enjoy making memories while indulging in this comfort food classic! Who knows? You might just become the family’s next culinary superstar!

You Must Know

This chicken fried chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic
The crispy exterior and juicy interior create an unforgettable dining experience
Pair it with your favorite sides for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken, then bread it, and finally fry it to golden perfection. This sequence ensures each piece gets maximum flavor and crunch without drying out.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices! Try adding smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra depth of flavor. You can even swap buttermilk with yogurt for a tangy twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 375°F until crispy—this keeps the coating crunchy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect chicken fried chicken, make sure your oil is hot enough to prevent sogginess
Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor
Lastly, let the chicken rest after frying to maintain juiciness

Cooking this dish always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air while enjoying crunchy bites of this comfort food, a true crowd-pleaser every time.

FAQs

FAQ

What’s the best oil for frying chicken fried chicken?

Use oils with high smoke points like peanut or canola oil for optimal frying results.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs add flavor and moisture, making them a great choice.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure it’s safe and juicy.