Chicken Fried Chicken: Southern Comfort on a Plate

Key Info:

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

Cook Time: 20-35 minutes

Total Time: 30-50 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Moderate

Dietary: Non-vegetarian, Southern comfort food

Equipment Needed:

• Large cast iron skillet or deep fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Meat thermometer
• Wire rack
• Shallow dredging dishes

Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 4-8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 lbs)

Dredge Mix:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1-2 tsp baking powder
• 1½-2 cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 Tbsp hot sauce (optional)

Seasoning Blend:

• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika

Game-Changing Tips:

• Marinate chicken in buttermilk for maximum tenderness
• Keep oil temperature between 325-350°F
• Never crowd the pan while frying

Method:

1. Prep Your Chicken

• Slice chicken breasts into thin, even cutlets
• Season lightly with salt and pepper
• Optional: Marinate in buttermilk for 30 minutes

2. Create Dredging Stations

• Station 1: Seasoned flour mixture
• Station 2: Beaten egg and buttermilk
• Station 3: Final flour coating

3. Dredge Like a Pro

• Coat chicken in flour
• Dip in egg mixture
• Coat again in seasoned flour
• Press coating firmly for maximum crunch

4. Fry to Golden Perfection

• Heat oil to 325-350°F
• Fry chicken 3-6 minutes per side
• Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F
• Drain on wire rack to maintain crispiness

5. Make Classic White Gravy

• Use reserved frying oil
• Whisk in flour
• Gradually add milk
• Season with salt and pepper
• Cook until thick and smooth

Crucial Serving Tips:

• Serve immediately for maximum crispiness
• Pour gravy over chicken just before serving
• Garnish with fresh parsley

Storage & Reheating:

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes
• Avoid microwave to maintain crispy texture

Variations:

• Gluten-free: Use alternative flour
• Spicy: Add cayenne to dredge
• Herb-infused: Mix herbs into flour coating

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Maintain consistent oil temperature
• Always check internal chicken temperature
• Let chicken rest briefly after frying

Nutrition Snapshot:

• High protein
• Moderate fat content
• Best enjoyed as occasional comfort food

Pro Chef Secrets:

• Use a meat thermometer
• Let chicken come to room temperature before frying
• Pat chicken dry before dredging
• Rest fried chicken on a wire rack to prevent soggy bottom

Final Chef’s Note:

This isn’t just fried chicken—it’s a Southern tradition that brings families together. Every crispy, golden bite tells a story of comfort, love, and culinary heritage.

Bon appétit, y’all!