Catch the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful chicken fried chicken. The golden crust crackles with each bite, releasing savory juices that make your mouth water with anticipation. Imagine the moment you pull it from the skillet; that sizzle is music to any food lover’s ears.
Now, picture a Sunday family gathering where this dish steals the show—even Uncle Bob who usually eats everything in sight stops to marvel at its crispy perfection. With every forkful of tender meat and crunchy coating, everyone around the table shares a laugh and a memory. This is more than just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This scrumptious chicken fried chicken offers incredible flavor and ease of preparation for any cook
- The golden-brown exterior is irresistible and visually stunning on any dinner plate
- It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions without breaking a sweat in the kitchen
The first time I made this recipe was during a family reunion, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it—she even attempted to steal my secret!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts should do well for a hearty serving; adjust based on appetite.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that crispy outer layer; choose unbleached for better results.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderness; feel free to use homemade by mixing milk with vinegar if needed.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for flavor; opt for fresh garlic if you want an extra kick.
- Onion Powder: A must-have for savory depth; it pairs beautifully with garlic powder.
- Cayenne Pepper: For those who like some heat; adjust based on your preference.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite; don’t skimp here!
- Vegetable Oil: Use enough oil for frying to ensure even cooking; canola oil works great too.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepping your chicken fried chicken requires just a few simple steps.
Brining Your Chicken: Begin by soaking the boneless breasts in buttermilk for at least one hour—or overnight if you’re feeling fancy. This step ensures juiciness as it marinates in flavor.
Dredging Time!: In another bowl, combine flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Use a whisk to mix thoroughly until no lumps remain.
Coat Your Chicken: Remove each piece from the buttermilk bath and let excess drip off before dredging them in your flour mixture until fully coated. Pat gently to ensure even coverage.
Heat It Up!: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F). It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
Sizzle Away!: Carefully place coated chicken into hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides (approximately 5-7 minutes per side). The visual cue? A deep golden color indicates they’re perfectly crisp!
Drain & Serve!: Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil before serving them hot and crispy!
Now you’re ready to impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table! Enjoy your flavorful creation of chicken fried chicken surrounded by loved ones or simply indulge all by yourself—we won’t tell anyone!
You Must Know
- Chicken fried chicken is a comfort dish that delights with its crispy outside and juicy inside
- Pair it with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate
- The aroma alone can lure anyone to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, then coat it in seasoned flour before frying. This sequence ensures maximum flavor and crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional spices for something zesty like Cajun seasoning or even add chopped herbs for freshness. Personalize it to fit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use buttermilk for marination; it adds tenderness and flavor
- Ensure your oil is hot enough to avoid sogginess
- Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep it crispy
I once made chicken fried chicken for a potluck, and everyone was asking me for the recipe. It felt amazing to see friends enjoying something I’d poured my heart into!
FAQ
What is the best oil for frying chicken fried chicken?
Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable or peanut oil for best results.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work great, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Try baking instead of frying; use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour for added nutrition.
Delightful Chicken Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the crispy perfection of this chicken fried chicken—tender meat enveloped in a golden, crunchy crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: Soak the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- 2. Prepare the flour mixture: In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Coat the chicken: Remove each piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- 4. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F).
- 5. Fry the chicken: Carefully add coated chicken to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- 6. Drain and serve: Transfer cooked chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, experiment with spices like Cajun seasoning or fresh herbs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg