Chicken Fried Chicken

When the aroma of perfectly fried chicken fills the air, it transports me to family gatherings and Sunday dinners. This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, delivering crispy, flavorful chicken every time due to the double-dredging technique.

This recipe is perfect for anyone craving comfort food or wanting to impress guests at a dinner party. It’s an ideal dish for weekend meals or celebrations, and you can make the chicken ahead and store it for quick weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy coating perfectly contrasts the tender chicken inside.
• The gravy is rich and creamy, adding delicious flavor.
• It can be on your table in just 30 minutes.
• Double dredging ensures every bite is coated with flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Chicken Fried Chicken:

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Gravy

• 1/4 cup reserved oil from frying
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 cup milk
• Salt & pepper to taste

Hot sauce can be adjusted for spice level.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use buttermilk substitute with milk and vinegar.
• Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs.
• If gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Any cooking oil can replace frying oil.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious outcome.

Heat oil

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan on the stove until it reaches 325°F.

Whisk dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.

Mix wet ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until smooth.

Dredge chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, and then back into the flour mixture, pressing down to ensure the flour sticks well.

Fry chicken

Place the coated chicken in the hot oil and fry each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with all chicken.

Make the gravy

In a large pan, add 1/4" of the reserved oil from cooking and heat over medium-high. Stir in the flour until absorbed and cook for about 1 minute.

Thicken gravy

Slowly add in the milk while whisking to blend. Heat until thickened and stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Pour gravy over individual chicken pieces before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, for longer preservation if well-wrapped.
Reheat: In the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for a crispy crust.
• Let the chicken rest briefly after frying for optimal juiciness.
• Use a thermometer for accurate cooking temperatures.
• Adjust frying time based on chicken thickness for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light contrast.
• Enjoy with a side of cornbread for an authentic Southern meal.