The crispy, golden-brown goodness of chicken fried chicken is a culinary masterpiece that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into tender chicken, lovingly coated in a crunchy, seasoned crust that crackles with each delightful chew. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your stomach grumble louder than your favorite sitcom audience.
Now, let’s get personal. My fondest memories of chicken fried chicken revolve around family gatherings where laughter and love filled the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together—whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a celebratory feast after a big win (or loss) during game night. Trust me; this dish promises an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried chicken is not only easy to prepare but offers a mouthwatering flavor profile that makes your taste buds sing
- The visual appeal of its golden crust will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds
- Versatile enough to be served on any occasion, from casual dinners to holiday feasts, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike
Ingredients for chicken fried chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for about 3-4 breasts for a hearty meal, adjusting as needed based on your guest list.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will form the perfect coating for that irresistible crunch we all crave.
- Buttermilk: Provides moisture and tenderness while adding a tangy richness to the chicken.
- Eggs: Helps the flour adhere to the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful and crispy.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and coating.
For frying:
- Vegetable Oil: Use enough oil to submerge half of the chicken pieces for frying; peanut oil works great if you want extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chicken fried chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk with salt and pepper. Submerge the boneless chicken breasts in this mixture and let them marinate in the fridge for at least one hour—this will make them extra juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure it’s well combined so every bite has that glorious flavor.
Step 3: Get Cracking
In yet another bowl (yes, I know it sounds excessive), beat two eggs until smooth. This egg wash is crucial for helping our flour coating stick like confetti at a New Year’s party.
Step 4: Coat Like You Mean It
Take each piece of marinated chicken from its buttermilk bath and dip it into the egg wash before rolling it generously in the seasoned flour mixture. Pat it down gently to ensure it’s fully coated—this is one of those moments where you can channel your inner artist!
Step 5: Heat Things Up
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in vegetable oil until it reaches about half an inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until hot—test by dropping a little bit of flour in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Step 6: Fry Away!
Carefully place each coated piece of chicken into the hot oil, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing! Transfer cooked pieces onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve your beautifully crispy chicken fried chicken hot with sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw. For an extra touch of flair, drizzle some gravy over top or serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
You Must Know
- This chicken fried chicken recipe takes comfort food to a whole new level
- Crispy, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends
- Customize the seasoning to match your taste buds while enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in seasoned buttermilk for at least an hour. While it’s soaking up flavor, prepare your flour mixture and heat the oil. Fry the chicken in batches for a crispy golden finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Swap out regular flour for gluten-free flour or add your favorite herbs to the coating mixture. You can also toss in some cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F until crispy again, about 15-20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking
- Let the coated chicken rest before frying to help the breading stick better
- Use a thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out your delicious chicken fried chicken
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one family reunion where my cousin declared my chicken fried chicken “life-changing.” Who knew crispy goodness could spark such joy?
FAQs :
What is chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken is a delicious Southern dish that features boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are breaded and fried. The process mimics that of traditional fried chicken, giving the dish a crispy outer layer while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. This comforting meal is often served with gravy, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, making it a favorite among many families.
How do you make chicken fried chicken?
To make chicken fried chicken, start by flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Dip them in seasoned flour, then in egg wash, and back into the flour for extra crunch. Fry in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with your choice of gravy or sides for a fulfilling meal that everyone will enjoy.
Can you bake chicken fried chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake chicken fried chicken for a healthier alternative. After breading the chicken, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method yields a crispy texture while reducing added fat.
What are some good side dishes for chicken fried chicken?
Chicken fried chicken pairs well with various side dishes. Popular options include creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, coleslaw for crunch, green beans for freshness, or cornbread for a classic Southern touch. These sides complement the flavors of the dish, creating a complete and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion for chicken fried chicken :
In conclusion, chicken fried chicken offers a delightful twist on classic Southern cuisine. This dish combines crispy breading with juicy meat, making it an approachable yet indulgent meal option. By following simple steps—such as proper seasoning and cooking techniques—you can create this crowd-pleaser at home. Whether you choose to fry or bake it, serving it with complementary sides enhances its appeal and makes it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy your homemade version of this beloved classic!
Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken fried chicken is a beloved Southern comfort food that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with juicy, tender meat. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, delivering an explosion of flavor in every bite. Coated in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection, it pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw. Bring the joy of this comforting meal to your table and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Submerge chicken breasts in the mixture and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- 2. Prepare the coating: In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Make the egg wash: In a third bowl, beat eggs until smooth.
- 4. Coat the chicken: Dip each marinated chicken breast into the egg wash followed by the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- 5. Heat oil: In a skillet, pour vegetable oil until about half an inch deep and heat over medium-high until hot.
- 6. Fry: Carefully place coated chicken in hot oil and fry for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
