How to make Chicken Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 6-8 thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbs hot sauce
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Directions:
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Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pan on the stove until it reaches 325°F. You need enough oil to be a few inches deep.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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In another bowl, blend the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce together.
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Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Press down to ensure the flour sticks well.
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Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the chicken and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat this for all the chicken breasts.
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To make the gravy, take a large pan and add 1/4 inch of oil left from the frying. Heat it on medium-high.
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Stir in the 1/3 cup of flour until it absorbs the oil and cook for about 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in the milk, blending it well. Keep heating and stirring until it thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the warm gravy over each piece of fried chicken before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken fried chicken is a beloved comfort food that offers a wonderful flavor and satisfying crunch. The crispy coating paired with tender chicken makes it a feast for the senses. Each bite brings a perfect blend of seasonings designed to awaken your taste buds.
The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. You can enjoy it as a delightful dinner option or serve it at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with happy, full bellies.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. The use of buttermilk in the batter adds calcium, while the spices bring antioxidants to the dish. When prepared with moderate oil, chicken fried chicken can be a balanced meal that offers energy and satisfaction.
What to Serve With Chicken Fried Chicken
Pairing your chicken fried chicken with traditional sides enhances the meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken and gravy.
- Collard Greens: Their earthy flavor contrasts nicely with the fried chicken.
- Cornbread: A sweet or savory cornbread can provide a delightful texture.
- Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy freshness to counteract the richness of the chicken.
How to Store Chicken Fried Chicken
To store leftover chicken fried chicken:
- Allow it to cool completely.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, place it in the oven or an air fryer to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving to keep it from becoming soggy.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t crowd the pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can reduce the oil’s temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Work in small batches.
- Check the oil temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not, the chicken will absorb too much oil.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest on paper towels before serving. This removes excess oil and keeps the coating crispy.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken: For an extra kick, add more hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the flour.
- Baked Chicken Fried Chicken: For a healthier option, bake the coated chicken in the oven instead of frying. Spray with oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Add herbs: Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, into the flour for an added flavor boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What is buttermilk, and can I substitute it?
Buttermilk is sour milk that adds tenderness. You can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a similar effect.
3. Can I freeze the leftover gravy?
Yes, you can freeze the gravy. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. It may separate upon thawing, so stir well before reheating.
Making chicken fried chicken is about more than just satisfying hunger; it’s about creating delicious moments and memories. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and watch them smile with each scrumptious bite.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 6-8 pieces thin sliced chicken breasts
- 2 cups flour For coating
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 cups buttermilk Can substitute with milk + lemon juice
- 1 piece egg
- 1 Tbs hot sauce Adjust to taste
- Oil for frying Ensure oil is hot enough
For the gravy
- 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
- 1/3 cup flour For thickening gravy
- 2 cups milk
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pan on the stove until it reaches 325°F. You need enough oil to be a few inches deep.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, blend the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce together.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Press down to ensure the flour sticks well.
Cooking
- Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry each side for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the chicken and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat this for all the chicken breasts.
- To make the gravy, take a large pan and add 1/4 inch of oil left from the frying. Heat it on medium-high.
- Stir in the 1/3 cup of flour until it absorbs the oil and cook for about 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, blending it well. Keep heating and stirring until it thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the warm gravy over each piece of fried chicken before serving.