Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe (Crispy & Easy Comfort Food)
Make chicken fried chicken with a crispy coating and creamy gravy. Easy comfort food recipe perfect for family dinners and hearty meals!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cast iron skillet (recommended)
- Tongs or spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
For Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Gravy:
- 3 tbsp pan drippings or butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: Place chicken in buttermilk mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare coating: Mix flour with spices in a shallow dish. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge in seasoned flour until fully coated.
- Pan-fry chicken: Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels.
- Make gravy: In the same skillet, whisk flour into drippings to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Place chicken on plates, pour gravy over the top, and serve with mashed potatoes or biscuits.
Notes
- Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes chicken and enhances flavor.
- Air frying is a lighter alternative to pan-frying.
- For spicier chicken, add cayenne or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Gravy can be customized with mushrooms, peppercorns, or herbs.
- Best served immediately for maximum crispness.