The first time I tasted Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy, it felt like a warm hug on a plate. My grandmother’s kitchen was filled with laughter and the inviting aroma of spices bubbling away, transporting me right back to those cherished family gatherings. This dish is the embodiment of comfort food, blending succulent fried chicken coated in a golden crust with a velvety gravy that dances on your taste buds.
Just imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken as it releases its savory goodness, all while the rich gravy adds the final touch of indulgence. Whether you’re looking to impress at dinner parties or simply craving a delicious meal after a hectic day, this recipe is both quick to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Plus, with variations to cater to gluten-free diets and even vegetarian twists, there’s a version for everyone! Let’s dive into this beloved classic and bring some Southern charm into your home.
Why love Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy?
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
- Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
- Flavorful: Juicy chicken is enveloped in a perfectly seasoned crispy crust, topped with rich, creamy gravy.
- Versatile: With gluten-free and vegetarian variations, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish without compromise.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s guaranteed to be a hit at family gatherings, ensuring smiles all around.
- Quick Prep: In just a short time, you can serve a homemade feast that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Indulge in this Southern classic, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved comfort food staple!
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – The tender, juicy star of the dish; you can substitute with thinly sliced pork or breaded mushrooms for variations.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor throughout the chicken.
- Paprika – Adds beautiful color and a hint of smoky flavor for depth.
- Black Pepper – A sprinkle provides a spicy kick to the crust.
- Garlic Powder – Contributes an aromatic richness that elevates the dish.
- Onion Powder – This adds sweetness and complexity to the seasoning blend.
- All-Purpose Flour – Key for creating that crispy coating; swap with gluten-free flour to enjoy the Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy without gluten.
- Eggs – Beat slightly for binding the breading effectively.
- Milk – Adds creaminess to your egg wash to help the coating adhere.
- Hot Sauce – Introduces a subtle heat; use cayenne pepper for more spice if desired.
- Canola Oil – Necessary for shallow frying until the chicken is wonderfully crispy.
For the Gravy
- Unsalted Butter – The rich and creamy base that makes the gravy luxurious.
- Flour – Combined with butter to create a roux that thickens the gravy perfectly.
- Whole Milk – Provides a creamy texture to the gravy, making it velvety.
- Salt and Pepper – Balance the flavors and season the gravy to taste.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create your very own Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy Heaven! Each bite is sure to bring comfort and joy to your dining table.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy
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Pound Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and pound them to a ¼ inch thickness for even cooking. This ensures that each piece cooks uniformly, locking in tenderness!
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Prepare Seasoning: In a bowl, combine kosher salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This flavorful mix will bring out the best in your chicken while adding that signature Southern taste.
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Set Dredging Station: Arrange three shallow dishes with plain flour, the seasoned egg/milk mixture, and seasoned flour. This setup is key for a delightful, crunchy coating.
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Dredge Chicken: First, coat your chicken in the plain flour. Next, dip it in the egg wash, and finally, roll it in the seasoned flour—get it nice and coated for that irresistible crunch!
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Fry Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet until it reaches 350-375°F, then gently fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Watch those delicious bubbles!
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Make Gravy: In a separate saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add warmed whole milk, continuing to whisk until you achieve a smooth, thick gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Plate your crispy fried chicken and generously ladle the creamy gravy on top. Enjoy it right away with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or vibrant green beans for a real Southern feast!
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy options are perfect for busy home cooks aiming to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the seasoned mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which helps enhance its flavor and tenderness. Additionally, the gravy can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—just make sure to reheat it gently on the stove to keep it smooth and creamy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the marinated chicken as directed, and serve it hot with the warmed gravy for a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as freshly prepared!
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these easy and delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this comfort food without the gluten.
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Buttermilk Marinade: Use buttermilk to marinate your chicken for enhanced tenderness and flavor. The extra tang adds a delightful richness to the meat.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with breaded mushrooms or slices of eggplant for a satisfying vegetarian option that’s just as crispy and delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour or use a spicier hot sauce in the egg wash for a fiery twist that will warm your soul.
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Asian Flavor: Introduce soy sauce and ginger into the egg wash for an exciting Asian-inspired flavor fusion, creating a sweet and savory coating.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh or dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your seasoned flour for a fragrant, earthy flavor profile that compliments the gravy beautifully.
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Cheesy Breading: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the seasoned flour for a rich, cheesy crust that pairs wonderfully with the creamy gravy.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the flour mixture for a bright, zesty finish that contrasts nicely with the richness of the gravy.
With these variations, you can enjoy an endless array of tastes while keeping the comfort of Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy at your table!
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy?
Imagine gathering around a table filled with familiar favorites that make every bite a joyful celebration of flavors and textures.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These luscious potatoes provide the perfect canvas for soaking up that rich, savory gravy, enhancing each exquisite bite. Their buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a delightful contrast to the richness of the chicken and gravy, bringing a fresh, light element to the plate.
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Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits make for a classic Southern companion. They’re perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy, keeping the meal cozy and delightful.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the fried chicken while adding a refreshing element that balances the meal beautifully.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob brings a summery feel to the table, making it a fun and colorful addition that complements the comforting flavors of the dish.
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Iced Sweet Tea: No Southern meal is complete without a glass of iced sweet tea, offering a refreshing sip that pairs wonderfully with the savory richness of the Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy.
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Peach Cobbler: Finish off the meal with a slice of warm peach cobbler. Its sweet, buttery crust and juicy filling make for a delightful sweet ending, echoing Southern hospitality.
Storage Tips for Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping the crispy chicken and gravy separate will help maintain their textures.
- Freezer: Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
- Gravy Storage: Refrigerate gravy in a separate container for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
- Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in an oven preheated to 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy as if it were freshly made!
Helpful Tricks for Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (350-375°F) before frying. This helps achieve a crispy outer layer without greasy chicken.
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to a uniform thickness for consistent cooking. Uneven pieces might lead to some parts being overcooked while others are underdone.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet. This keeps the oil temperature stable and allows the chicken to crisp up rather than steam.
- Whisking Gravy: Whisk the gravy continuously to avoid lumps; gradually incorporate milk until you achieve your desired thickness. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning!
- Resting Time: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes on a paper towel before serving. This allows excess oil to drain and maintains that beautiful crispiness.
Master these expert tips, and your Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy will be heavenly each time!
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the juiciest result. If you’re looking for variations, thinly sliced pork or even breaded mushrooms make for excellent substitutes.
How should I store leftovers of Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy?
For storage, place the fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it willstay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the gravy in a separate container for up to 4 days. This will help maintain the delightful textures and flavors!
Can I freeze the chicken and gravy?
Yes! Wrap the leftover Chicken Fried Chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. For the gravy, refrigerate it in a separate container as mentioned above or freeze it in an ice cube tray for easy portions. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
How can I prevent the chicken from getting soggy when reheating?
To avoid lost crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. This way, the residual heat revives that beautiful crunch as if it were freshly made, delightful for every bite!
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Very! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. Additionally, always double-check the labels of your seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free. Enjoy the same comforting flavors gluten-free!
What should I serve alongside Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy?
I often pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans. Coleslaw and buttermilk biscuits also make fantastic side dishes that complement the savory flavors beautifully, creating a complete Southern meal on your table!
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions as you dive into this scrumptious journey! Enjoy cooking!
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy Heaven Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a ziplock bag and pound them to a ¼ inch thickness for even cooking.
- Prepare Seasoning: In a bowl, combine kosher salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Set Dredging Station: Arrange three shallow dishes with plain flour, the seasoned egg/milk mixture, and seasoned flour.
- Dredge Chicken: Coat your chicken in the plain flour, dip it in the egg wash, and roll it in the seasoned flour.
- Fry Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet, then gently fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Make Gravy: In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Serve: Plate your crispy fried chicken and generously ladle the creamy gravy on top.