If there’s one dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between a cozy home-cooked meal and something you’d find at a bustling family gathering, it’s Chicken Fried Chicken. With its crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy meat, this dish has been an iconic part of Southern cuisine for generations. Growing up in the South, I remember the scent of fried chicken filling the kitchen, making the house feel warm and alive with anticipation. It wasn’t just about the meal—it was about the love, the traditions, and the memories built around the table.

Chicken Fried Chicken is an extension of the much-loved fried chicken tradition. While its crispy, seasoned coating is a nod to its cousin, fried chicken, the difference lies in the tender boneless chicken breasts, offering a heartier bite that is perfect for a satisfying meal. You’ll find this dish served with all kinds of sides—mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, and collard greens are often the first to come to mind. It’s a dish that holds stories—stories of grandmothers teaching their granddaughters how to season the flour just right, of mothers cooking for their families after a long day, and of friends sharing laughter over a plateful of comfort.

This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s a tradition in the making. The combination of crispy fried chicken paired with rich, flavorful gravy brings warmth and joy to the soul. If you’re looking for something that’s bound to become a favorite in your family too, this recipe is just the ticket.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Chicken Fried Chicken is all about crispy texture and juicy meat. The seasoning in the flour creates a flavorful crunch on the outside, while the chicken inside remains perfectly tender and moist. This recipe is easy to follow and yields the most delicious results that will make you want to eat it again and again. Whether you’re making it for a special Sunday supper or simply craving a home-cooked meal, this dish will always deliver comfort, flavor, and a touch of Southern charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 pieces)
Flour (1 ½ cups)
Cornstarch (1/4 cup)
Salt (1 ½ teaspoons)
Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
Paprika (1 teaspoon)
Cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
Buttermilk (2 cups)
Eggs (2 large)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Butter (2 tablespoons)
Chicken broth (1 cup)
Heavy cream (1/2 cup)
Flour (for the gravy base, 2 tablespoons)

How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by tenderizing the boneless chicken breasts. Gently pound the chicken using a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure that they cook evenly and stay tender. After tenderizing, season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. This initial seasoning will help flavor the chicken from the inside out.

Step 2: Set Up Your Dipping Stations

Next, set up two dipping stations—one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until they’re well combined. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The buttermilk helps the flour adhere to the chicken while also infusing it with flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour, pressing down gently so the coating sticks. Make sure each piece of chicken is completely covered in the flour mixture, then set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the oil for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small pinch of flour dropped in sizzles immediately. Gently place the chicken in the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the chicken is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F). Once fried, remove the chicken and set it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir constantly to form a roux, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Once the broth is incorporated, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the gravy simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Place your crispy chicken fried chicken on a plate and generously ladle the creamy gravy over the top. Pair it with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or any other Southern side dishes you love. And don’t forget to serve it with a smile—this dish is sure to be the star of your meal.

Helpful Tips:

Double Dipping: For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice before frying.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Frying Oil: Vegetable oil is ideal for frying because it has a high smoke point. Be sure the oil is hot enough to ensure that the chicken crisps up without soaking in too much oil.
Keep the Chicken Warm: If you’re frying multiple pieces, keep the fried chicken warm in an oven set to 200°F until everything is ready to serve.

Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Fried
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Gluten

Notes:

If you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 550 per serving
Protein: 40g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs are just as delicious and will give you a slightly juicier result, as they have more fat. You’ll want to cook them a little longer than chicken breasts.

Can I make the gravy without cream? Absolutely! You can skip the cream and just use chicken broth for a lighter gravy. It will still have great flavor!

How do I know when the chicken is done? The best way to check if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Storage Instructions:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to retain the crispiness.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this Chicken Fried Chicken, you’ll also enjoy these other comforting, hearty dishes:

Conclusion:

Chicken Fried Chicken is a meal that brings together all the things we love about Southern comfort food. It’s crispy, tender, and covered in a rich, creamy gravy that you’ll want to savor in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting friends for a special occasion, this dish will never disappoint. Try it today and experience the magic of this Southern classic—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household, too!

Chicken Fried Chicken: A Comforting Southern Classic