Chicken Fried Chicken with Creamy Country Gravy

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Crispy, golden, and irresistibly delicious, Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings Southern charm to your table. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts, double-dredged in a seasoned flour coating, then fried to perfection for a crunchy, flavorful bite. Topped with a rich and creamy country-style gravy, this meal is a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Crispy and Juicy Chicken Fried Chicken

Chicken Fried Chicken takes the best parts of classic fried chicken and simplifies it for a quicker, more approachable meal. Unlike traditional bone-in fried chicken, this recipe uses boneless chicken breasts, which cook faster while remaining juicy inside. The crispy breading locks in moisture, creating a perfect contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, flavorful meat.

Perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, this dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered biscuits, or a side of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special weekend treat, Chicken Fried Chicken is bound to be a favorite on your menu!

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken with Creamy Country Gravy

To achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that irresistible golden crust and creamy, savory gravy.

For the Chicken Fried Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Choose large, fresh chicken breasts. Pound them to an even thickness for even cooking and extra tenderness.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the crispy coating, ensuring a crunchy and golden exterior.
• Eggs & Buttermilk – This combination helps the breading stick to the chicken while adding a slight tang that enhances flavor.
• Seasonings (Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Onion Powder, Cayenne Pepper) – A blend of spices that gives the chicken bold and savory flavor with a slight kick.
• Baking Powder – Helps create a light, crispy texture in the breading.
• Oil for Frying – Use a high-heat oil like vegetable or canola oil to achieve a perfect golden brown fry.

For the Creamy Country Gravy:

• Butter – Provides richness and helps create the base of the gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour – Used to thicken the gravy, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
• Milk – The main liquid component for a creamy consistency.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Simple but essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the gravy.

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken with Creamy Country Gravy

This dish comes together in a few simple steps, ensuring a crispy, golden chicken with a smooth and flavorful country-style gravy.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to about ½ inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them tender.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and seasonings.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour for a double coating. This creates an extra crispy crust.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Country Gravy

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the warm, creamy gravy over the crispy fried chicken and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or biscuits!

How Long to Fry Chicken Fried Chicken

The frying time for Chicken Fried Chicken depends on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the oil temperature. Here are some general guidelines to ensure perfectly crispy and fully cooked chicken:

• Thin Chicken Breasts (½ inch thick) – Fry for 3-4 minutes per side at 350°F (175°C).
• Thicker Chicken Breasts (¾ inch or more) – Fry for 5-6 minutes per side at the same temperature.

You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a crispy golden-brown crust.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store and reheat them properly to maintain the crispy texture and delicious flavor.

• Refrigerator: Place leftover fried chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each piece of chicken in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat Chicken Fried Chicken

To keep the chicken crispy when reheating, avoid using the microwave, which can make the breading soggy. Instead, use one of these methods:

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
• Skillet: Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat and warm the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken

To achieve the most flavorful and crispy chicken, follow these key tips:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly – This ensures uniform cooking and prevents dry spots.
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness – Coating the chicken in flour, then buttermilk, and then flour again creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Use a Thermometer – Ensure the oil stays around 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
• Let the Chicken Rest – Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes after frying to keep it crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. Just adjust the frying time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What Can I Serve with Chicken Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, biscuits, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free flour for both the breading and the gravy thickener to make it gluten-free.

Why Is My Breading Falling Off?

To prevent the breading from falling off:

• Pat the chicken dry before breading.
• Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken.
• Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying.

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