Chicken Fried Chicken

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Chicken fried chicken is a simple and easy Southern homestyle meal. Juicy chicken breast is coated in crispy breading and topped with a creamy white country gravy that will leave your mouth watering! Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or “almost homemade” mac and cheese and Pig Pickin’ Cake for dessert to complete your meal.

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We’ve all heard of fried chicken and chicken fried steak but have you tried chicken fried chicken yet? This is a classic Southern recipe straight from my grandma’s kitchen!

Why I love this recipe

There are so many reasons this is a favorite of mine: the ingredients are simple, it’s super easy to make, and it’s the ultimate comfort food! Just whip up some mashed potatoes and green beans on the side and it’s country eating at it’s best!

Ingredients

chicken breasts
buttermilk
egg
flour
baking soda & baking powder
salt, ground black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder
hot sauce (the secret ingredient!!)
butter
milk

Need more great chicken recipes? Try our chicken cordon bleu casserole, chicken pot pie casserole, or baked BBQ chicken!

Step by step

In a bowl, mix together egg, hot sauce, and buttermilk.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and seasonings.
Dredge the chicken first in the flour mixture, then dip it in the buttermilk mixture, then again in the flour mixture.
In a large skillet, heat your oil.
Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side. When done, set aside on a paper towel lined plate.
To make the gravy, melt butter in a small saucepan.
Add flour and whisk constantly for one minute.
Add milk slowly while continuing to whisk. Cook, stirring often, until gravy thickens. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

breading chicken breasts in flour mixture

FAQs

Can make this without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk you can combine 1 1/2 cups whole or 2% milk with 1 1/2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit 10 minutes before using. It is important not to use plain milk (see this article for the science behind using buttermilk with baking soda.)

What is the best oil for frying?

I recommend using peanut oil, canola oil, corn oil, or vegetable oil for frying up your chicken fried chicken. These are all neutral flavored oils with a high smoke point.

Which hot sauce should I use?

You can use any variety that you prefer. We use Texas Pete the majority of the time.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before you dredge it in the flour the first time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days, storing the gravy separately. I recommend reheating the chicken for about 7 minutes at 350 degrees in an air fryer to keep it crispy. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven set at 350 for about ten minutes. Reheat the gravy in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring often.

pouring gravy over chicken fried chicken

I hope you enjoy this easy recipe as much as I do!

If you try this recipe please comment and rate it below, I love hearing from you!