Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe

Name: Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; Salt, pepper, paprika (to taste); Cooking oil (vegetable or peanut)

By Maria Del

March 16, 2025

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The aroma of sizzling oil fills the kitchen as you prepare for a heavenly dish—chicken fried chicken. Imagine biting into the crispy exterior, only to reveal juicy, tender meat inside. It’s a flavor explosion that dances on your tongue and makes your taste buds sing a joyful tune.

Growing up in the South, this dish was a staple at family gatherings. I remember my grandmother wielding her cast-iron skillet like a wand, conjuring up deliciousness that made everyone gather around the table in anticipation. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a casual get-together, there’s never a bad time for this dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a simple yet scrumptious way to make chicken fried chicken from scratch
The crispy coating will leave you wanting more with every bite
Perfectly seasoned and juicy on the inside, it’s visually appealing enough to impress guests at any gathering
Best of all, this dish is versatile enough for family dinners or special occasions

I once made this for a potluck and witnessed my friends nearly fight over the last piece—it was that good!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are perfect for feeding a hungry crowd; adjust as needed.
Buttermilk: The secret ingredient that ensures juicy meat and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides the essential base for the crispy coating; don’t skimp on this!
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Use these to pack flavor into your coating; feel free to experiment!
Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Peanut): Essential for frying; use enough to submerge half of the chicken for even cooking.

For additional flavor:

Garlic Powder: Add this to your dry mix for an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cayenne Pepper: For those who like it spicy; just a pinch will do wonders!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: Start by soaking your boneless chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour—this adds moisture and flavor while tenderizing the meat.

Prepare Your Coating: In a large bowl, combine flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne if desired. Stir until well mixed.

Dredge the Chicken: Remove each piece of marinated chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off before coating it generously in the seasoned flour mixture.

Heat Up the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that it sizzles when you drop in a small pinch of flour.

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place dredged chicken pieces in hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer your beautiful creations onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest briefly before serving—you want them crispier than my uncle’s dad jokes!

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe for chicken fried chicken, gather around the table with family or friends. Enjoy every crispy bite while reminiscing about those special moments that bring us all together!

You Must Know

This chicken fried chicken recipe combines crispy texture with juicy meat; it’s a southern comfort food classic
The aroma alone will draw everyone to your kitchen, and the flavors are simply unforgettable
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s sure to impress

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning the chicken and letting it marinate while preparing the breading. Then, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat before frying for crispy perfection.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in your favorite spices into the flour for added flavor. You can also swap buttermilk with yogurt for a tangy twist that enhances moisture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your oil reach the right temperature before frying; this helps achieve that golden brown crust
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure even cooking
Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F for safety

I once made chicken fried chicken for a barbecue, and my uncle claimed it was better than his mother’s recipe! That compliment still makes me smile today.

FAQs

FAQ

What is chicken fried chicken?

Chicken fried chicken is breaded and fried chicken, resembling fried steak but using poultry.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts work well for this recipe and cook faster too!

How do I keep my chicken crispy?

To maintain crispiness, place cooked pieces on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying.

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