Discover an easy and delicious chicken fried chicken recipe that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion!
Catch the aroma of crispy breading wafting through your kitchen while imagining juicy, tender chicken hiding beneath that golden crust. This mouthwatering dish is not just food; it’s a culinary hug that warms your soul and brings back memories of family gatherings around the table.
Now picture this: a Sunday afternoon, laughter echoing as my grandma whips up her famous chicken fried chicken while we kids sneak bites when no one is watching. The anticipation builds with every sizzle in the pan, making it impossible to resist longing for that first crispy bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers unbeatable flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen
- You can easily adapt the spices based on your cravings
- The eye-catching golden crust makes it a showstopper at any gathering
- Enjoy it fresh or reheated for delicious leftovers throughout the week
I still remember the first time I served this dish to my friends; their delighted faces said it all.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts, but adjust based on your dinner crowd.
- Buttermilk: Adds incredible moisture and tenderness; opt for whole buttermilk if possible.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for our crispy coating; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; don’t skimp on these!
- Paprika: Adds color and a hint of smokiness; I prefer smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Garlic Powder: For that aromatic kick; fresh garlic works too if you want a stronger punch.
- Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or peanut oil for frying; they hold heat well without smoking.
For the coating:
- Baking Powder: Helps create an even crunchier texture; essential for that perfect bite!
- Hot Sauce (optional): Add a splash if you like a bit of heat in your batter.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for an adventure in cooking as we dive into making the ultimate comfort food!
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Submerge the chicken breasts fully and let them marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.
Prepare Your Coating Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour mixed with paprika and baking powder, another with beaten eggs (and hot sauce if using), and one empty dish for dredging.
Dredge the Chicken: Take each marinated chicken breast out of the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Coat first in flour mixture, then dip into egg wash before returning to flour—double coating gives it extra crunch!
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough oil to cover about half an inch of the bottom. Heat until shimmering but not smoking—test by dropping in a pinch of flour; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place coated chicken breasts into hot oil while avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes per side). Use tongs to flip gently.
Drain and Serve!: Once cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F), transfer fried chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw!
Now sit back and enjoy as everyone raves about your homemade chicken fried chicken masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This chicken fried chicken recipe is a game changer
- The crispy coating and juicy chicken will make your taste buds dance
- It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in
- Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to dish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, prepare your breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This way, you’ll achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Add Your TouchDiscover an easy and delicious chicken fried chicken recipe that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion!
Feel free to spice things up! Add cayenne pepper to the flour for a kick, or incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
Storing & ReheatingDiscover an easy and delicious chicken fried chicken recipe that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion!
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until crispy again—about 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through; it should reach 165°F internally
- When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness
- Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep it from getting soggy
Sometimes I think my kitchen might just turn into a comedy show when I attempt this recipe! One time, while frying, I accidentally splashed hot oil everywhere—it was chaos! But in the end, everyone loved the chicken and forgot about my little “fry disaster.”
FAQDiscover an easy and delicious chicken fried chicken recipe that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion!
What is chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken is breaded and fried chicken that’s juicy inside with a crispy exterior.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs are great for added flavor and moisture in this recipe.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free too.
Delicious Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken fried chicken is a delightful twist on the classic fried chicken, featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with paprika, one with beaten eggs (add hot sauce if desired), and one empty dish.
- Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, dip into egg wash, then coat again in flour.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry each piece of chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
- Drain on paper towels or a wire rack before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, incorporate cayenne pepper into the flour mixture or use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.