- August 12, 2025
Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Southern Classic Comfort Food
Few dishes are as comforting, crispy, and satisfying as a well-made chicken fried chicken recipe. Often confused with fried chicken or chicken-fried steak, this dish has its own identity and flavor. It’s a staple of Southern cuisine, where crispy breaded chicken cutlets are fried to golden perfection and often served with creamy country gravy.
Whether you’re craving an easy chicken fried chicken recipe, a southern chicken fried chicken recipe, or even a spicy chicken fried chicken recipe, this guide will walk you through every detail, including tips, variations, and serving ideas.
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Unlike traditional fried chicken, which uses bone-in pieces, chicken fried chicken typically starts with boneless chicken breasts that are pounded thin, breaded, and fried just like fried chicken. The result is a crispy chicken fried chicken recipe with a crunchy crust and juicy interior.
The term “chicken fried” refers to the cooking method, similar to chicken-fried steak. So when you see a country style chicken fried chicken recipe, it usually includes pan-frying the chicken and topping it with creamy gravy.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Here’s what you need for a homemade chicken fried chicken recipe:
2 large boneless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
1 cup buttermilk (for a buttermilk chicken fried chicken recipe)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper (for a spicy chicken fried chicken recipe)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
Vegetable oil for frying
For gravy (optional but recommended for country style chicken fried chicken recipe):
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
Salt and pepper
Chicken Fried Chicken Step by Step Recipe
Here’s the chicken fried chicken step by step recipe for golden, crispy results:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk
Place chicken in a bowl of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
This ensures a juicy chicken fried chicken recipe with tender meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
In one bowl: flour + garlic powder + onion powder + paprika.
In another bowl: whisk eggs with milk.
Dredge chicken in flour → dip in egg mixture → coat again in flour.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet to 175°C (350°F).
Fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Place on a wire rack to keep it crispy.
Step 5: Make Country Gravy (Optional)
In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour.
Slowly add milk, stirring until thick and creamy.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve crispy chicken hot, with gravy poured on top.
Pair with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or coleslaw for a classic chicken fried chicken recipe dinner.
Variations of Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Easy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Skip the gravy and just serve crispy chicken with hot sauce.
Simple Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Just flour, salt, and pepper for breading.
Southern Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Serve with white country gravy, mashed potatoes, and biscuits.
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Double coat in seasoned flour for extra crunch.
Buttermilk Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Buttermilk marinade keeps chicken tender and flavorful.
Golden Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Add a little turmeric or extra paprika for deep golden color.
Authentic Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Follow traditional Southern techniques with cast iron frying.
Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Add cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce to the marinade.
Old Fashioned Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Keep it traditional with simple seasoning and pan-frying.
Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe – Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.
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Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Chicken
Use a cast iron skillet – It keeps heat steady and gives a perfect crust.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to keep oil hot and chicken crispy.
Double dip for crunch – Coat chicken twice in flour mixture.
Rest on a wire rack – Prevents soggy bottoms.
Season the flour – Don’t forget to flavor the breading.
Serving Suggestions
A chicken fried chicken dinner recipe is complete with these sides:
Mashed potatoes with gravy
Creamed corn
Buttermilk biscuits
Macaroni and cheese
Coleslaw
Green beans
For a Southern-style feast, serve sweet iced tea on the side.
Healthier Alternatives
For a healthy chicken fried chicken recipe version:
Bake instead of frying (at 200°C / 400°F for 25 minutes).
Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for breading.
Skip the gravy or make a lighter version with skim milk.
Air-fry for crispy results with less oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between fried chicken and chicken fried chicken?
A: Fried chicken uses bone-in pieces, while chicken fried chicken uses boneless, pounded chicken breasts cooked like chicken-fried steak.
Q2: Can I make chicken fried chicken without buttermilk?
A: Yes, substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Q3: How do I keep chicken juicy when frying?
A: Marinate in buttermilk, don’t overcook, and let it rest after frying.
Q4: Can I make it in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Spray with oil and cook at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes.
Q5: What’s the best gravy for chicken fried chicken?
A: Traditional white country gravy, but brown gravy works too.
Why This is the Best Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
This is the best chicken fried chicken recipe because it combines crispy breading, juicy chicken, and rich gravy. It’s a true southern chicken fried chicken recipe that delivers comfort in every bite. Whether you’re making a quick chicken fried chicken recipe on a weeknight or going all out with a restaurant style chicken fried chicken recipe, this dish never disappoints.
Interesting Facts
The chicken fried chicken recipe is more than just comfort food—it’s a celebration of Southern cooking. With crispy breading, juicy meat, and creamy gravy, it’s a dish that always hits the spot. From the classic chicken fried chicken recipe to the spicy chicken fried chicken recipe, there’s a version for everyone.
So grab some chicken breasts, heat up your skillet, and try this homemade chicken fried chicken recipe tonight. Serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy, and you’ll see why this dish has stood the test of time.
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