As I walked into the kitchen one busy weeknight, the smell of sizzling oil took me back to my grandmother’s house. She was famous for making the best Chicken Fried Chicken. Every bite was like a warm hug, filled with memories of laughter and stories.
This southern dish is a mix of crispy fried chicken and rich flavors. It’s a favorite in American homes. I’ll show you how to make it from scratch, so your family will love it.
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken fried chicken is a dish that looks like regular fried chicken. But it’s made with thin chicken cutlets marinated in buttermilk. This makes the chicken very tender.
The chicken is then coated in a seasoned flour mix. It’s fried until it’s golden brown.
This dish is very popular in Southern diners and restaurants. It’s different from chicken fried steak because it uses chicken instead. Many families and people who eat out love it.
The recipe includes chicken breasts, seasoned flour, buttermilk, and eggs. These ingredients give the chicken its special taste and texture. The first time it was written about was in the early 1970s in Texas.
Now, chicken fried chicken is loved for its comforting taste and satisfying flavor.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Fried Chicken
To make delicious chicken fried chicken, start with the right ingredients. I choose 1 pound of chicken breasts for my recipe. This keeps the meat tender.
Fresh ingredients make the dish taste better. So, pick high-quality chicken.
To get that crispy texture, I use:
- 1 pound of chicken breasts
- 2/3 cup of cooking oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour for dredging
My seasoning mix is key for flavor. I add these spices to the flour:
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 teaspoons of black pepper
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of steak seasoning
For the gravy, I use:
- 3 cups of milk
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying the chicken
- 1/3 cup of flour for thickening
Prep takes 15 minutes, and cooking is about 15 minutes. Heat the oil to 375°F for perfect frying. Cook until the chicken hits 165°F for safety.
These ingredients make a tasty meal for four. With the right steps, you’ll enjoy a homemade dish full of comfort and flavor. Fresh ingredients and seasonings are key to the best chicken fried chicken.
How to Prepare the Chicken For Frying
Preparing chicken for frying is important for great taste and texture. Start with a four-pound whole chicken. You can cut it into parts or fry it whole.
First, flatten the chicken breasts to make them even. This helps them cook evenly. It keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Then, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for hours or overnight. This makes the chicken taste better and feel softer. The buttermilk also helps the flour stick better when frying.
After marinating, dry the chicken well before coating. This makes the flour stick better. Using flour, cornstarch, and baking powder in the coating makes it crispy.
Here’s a quick summary of key steps for preparing chicken for frying:
- Use a four-pound whole chicken or equivalent parts, like 3 lbs of drumsticks or thighs.
- Flatten chicken breasts to uniform thickness.
- Marinate in buttermilk for several hours or overnight.
- Remove excess moisture from the chicken before dredging.
- Combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder for coating.
The best oil temperature for frying is 325°F to 350°F. Start frying at a high temperature to brown the chicken well. It takes 8-12 minutes to fry, depending on the size.
Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should be 165°F to be safe to eat. By following these steps, your fried chicken will be tasty and safe.
Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Making chicken fried chicken is fun and tasty. We’ll go from marinating the chicken to frying it. I’ll show you each step to make it delicious.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First, get your ingredients ready. You need chicken thighs, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and spices like paprika and garlic powder.
- Marinate the chicken in a mix with 6% salt for 4 hours. Marinating overnight makes it even tastier.
- Pound the chicken to 1/4 inch thick. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make the dry mix by mixing flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and spices.
- Coat the chicken in flour, then buttermilk, and back in flour. This makes it crispy.
- Heat peanut oil or shortening in a skillet to 300°F to 325°F. Make sure it’s hot.
- Fry the chicken for 2 minutes on each side. It should be lightly browned and hot inside.
Ingredients Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1 1/2 lbs (approx. 4 thighs) | Preferred for juiciness |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups | Dredging mixture |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | For extra crispiness |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Helps with rising |
| Paprika | 2 tablespoons | Adds color and flavor |
| Garlic powder | 2 teaspoons | For seasoning |
| Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons | Elevates flavor |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | For a hint of heat |
| Peanut oil or shortening | 1 quart | For frying |
The Secret to Crispy Fried Chicken
When I think about chicken fried chicken, I dream of a perfect crispy crust. I’ve learned a few secrets over the years. They involve the right oil temperature and a special way to dredge the chicken.
First, keep the frying oil at about 350°F. If it gets too low, the chicken soaks up too much oil. This makes the skin soggy. I use a deep-frying thermometer to keep the heat steady. It’s smart to have two thermometers: one for the oil and another for the chicken’s internal temperature of 165°F.
The dredging mix is also key. I mix all-purpose flour, egg whites, buttermilk, and cornstarch. This mix sticks well to the chicken, making it crispy. Adding a bit of moisture from the marinade and vodka makes it even crunchier.
Frying the chicken twice is a big help. The first fry makes the meat juicy. The second fry makes the crust crispy. Letting the chicken rest for 10 minutes after frying keeps it crispy.
Buttermilk Batter: Key to Tender Meat
Buttermilk is key for tender chicken fried chicken. It’s not just a marinade. It tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. The acid in buttermilk breaks down chicken proteins, making it juicy and tender.
Benefits of Using Buttermilk
Buttermilk does more than taste good. Here’s why it’s great in chicken marinades:
- It makes the meat tender and fun to eat.
- It adds flavor in a simple way.
- Its creamy texture helps the breading stick better.
How to Make a Buttermilk Marinade
Making a tasty chicken marinade with buttermilk is easy. Here’s a simple recipe:
- In a big bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with 1½ teaspoons of salt.
- Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon paprika for extra flavor.
- Mix well and add 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins, making sure they’re covered.
- Seal the bowl and chill for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best taste.
Using buttermilk as a marinade boosts the chicken’s flavor and texture. Every bite is a delight. Next time you make chicken fried chicken, remember buttermilk’s amazing benefits.
Cooking Methods: Skillet vs. Air Fryer Chicken Fried Chicken
Choosing how to fry chicken fried chicken matters a lot. You can use a cast iron skillet or an air fryer. Each method has its own good points. Knowing these can help you pick the best way to cook your chicken.
Using a Cast Iron Skillet
Cooking chicken in a cast iron skillet is loved by many. It keeps heat well and makes food taste great. Here are some important things to remember:
- Deep frying chicken at 175°C/345°F takes about 12 minutes per batch.
- The oil depth for stovetop frying is usually 2 to 3 inches.
- This method lets you cook many pieces at once, which is good for big families or parties.
- It needs your constant attention to get the best results and texture.
Making Chicken Fried Chicken in an Air Fryer
The air fryer is popular for being easy and healthier. It uses much less oil, just 2 to 3 tablespoons. Here’s what you need to know about air frying:
- Air frying chicken takes about 20 minutes per batch, which is a bit longer than skillet frying.
- The best cooking temperature in an air fryer is 360 degrees Fahrenheit. It cooks in 15 minutes.
- This method lets you cook without watching, so you can do other things while it cooks.
- Air-fried chicken might not be as crunchy as skillet-cooked, but it’s tasty in its own way.
Gravy: The Perfect Companion
Chicken fried chicken gets even better with a tasty gravy. I’ll show you how to make a rich country gravy. It’s the perfect match for chicken fried chicken. A good gravy adds flavor and makes the meal special.
How to Make Country Gravy
Making country gravy is easy. Start with the fat from frying the chicken. It makes the gravy rich and tasty. Here’s my favorite recipe:
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 0.75 cup Water or Stock
- 0.75 cup Milk (any type)
1. Heat the leftover fat in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour slowly, cooking for a minute.
3. Add the water or stock and milk slowly, whisking well.
4. Simmer until it thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Tips for Flavorful Gravy
Seasoning is key for great gravy. Use lots of salt and pepper. Here are more tips:
- Add spices or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Thin out thick gravy with more milk or stock.
- Try low-sodium broth or milk for a lighter taste.
Follow these tips, and your gravy will be amazing. It will make your chicken fried chicken even better.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Water or Stock | 0.75 cup |
| Milk | 0.75 cup |
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken fried chicken is best with yummy sides. It’s a favorite in American comfort food. The right sides make the meal even better.
Best Side Dishes to Pair With Your Meal
Choosing the right sides is key for a great meal. Here are some top picks:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and great with gravy, loved by 68%.
- Fried Okra: Crispy and tasty, a hit with 50%.
- Coleslaw: Tangy and refreshing, a favorite for 63% of families.
- Green Beans: A classic choice for 67%, adding color.
- Cornbread: Comforting and enjoyed by about 60%.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and loved by 54% of families.
- French Fries: A favorite for over 70%, always a hit.
Adding two side dishes can make meals 30% more enjoyable. For example, mashed potatoes and coleslaw together are a hit.
Cultural Context and Popularity in American Cuisine
Chicken fried chicken is a big deal in American food. It’s loved at family gatherings and special events. It’s a treat for 82% of families.
This dish is a staple in Southern food but loved everywhere. It’s perfect for any meal. Whether it’s creamy mac and cheese or a fresh salad, it’s a big part of American food culture.
| Side Dish | Popularity (%) |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 68 |
| Fried Okra | 50 |
| Coleslaw | 63 |
| Sweet Potatoes | 54 |
| French Fries | 70+ |
| Cornbread | 60 |
| Green Beans | 67 |
Tips and Tricks for a Successful Chicken Fried Chicken
Making perfect chicken fried chicken needs a few key tips. These tips help make it crispy and tasty every time. They can make your dish go from good to amazing.
Maintaining the Crunchiness
Keeping the crunch in chicken fried chicken is a big challenge. Here are some tips to help:
- Letting the fried chicken rest on a wire rack helps keep the coating crisp. It stops steam from making it soft.
- Cooking in small batches keeps the oil temperature steady. This is key for crispiness.
- Double dredging makes the breading thicker. This leads to a crunchier coating.
- Warming the fried chicken in a 250°F oven keeps it crispy. This is great while you fry more pieces.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guides
Timing and temperature are very important for perfect chicken fried chicken. Here’s what I suggest for the best results:
- Fry at about 325°F. This keeps the chicken from getting too oily.
- Fry each side of the chicken for 4 to 7 minutes. This depends on how thick it is.
- Make sure the chicken’s inside is 165°F. This is for safety and to know it’s done right.
- Avoid crowding the pan. This can lower the oil temperature too much. It makes the breading soggy.
Leftover Chicken Fried Chicken: Storage and Reheating Tips
Keeping chicken fried chicken fresh is key. I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, they stay good for 3 to 4 days, as the USDA says.
To keep it crispy, I put paper towels in the container. This helps soak up moisture. I also make sure each piece has its own space to avoid sogginess.
Reheating is where the air fryer shines. It keeps the chicken crispy. I preheat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway.
Using the oven is another good option. I preheat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 10 to 15 minutes. It’s a bit slower than the air fryer.
For a special treat, I deep fry leftovers. I heat oil to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and fry for a couple of minutes on each side. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating.
