Imagine a dinner that’s on the table faster than takeout, nourishes your body, and explodes with flavor in every bite. That’s Chicken Fried Chicken. Forget the guilt of processed meals; this is wholesome goodness, reinvented. As a parent, I know how crucial is time. Chicken Fried Chicken is quick meal or dinner with simple ingredients !
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, Sunday dinners were a sacred ritual. My grandma, a woman who could coax flavor out of thin air, always made a version of fried chicken. Not just any fried chicken, but a flattened, perfectly seasoned, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside masterpiece. This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is an homage to her, a modern twist that captures the essence of those cherished memories, made faster for today’s busy lives.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Make the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk or buttermilk and the egg. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press the flour mixture into the chicken to help it adhere.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd.
- Fry to Perfection: Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk or buttermilk and the egg. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Dip each chicken breast in the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press the flour mixture into the chicken to help it adhere.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
To prevent the chicken from becoming soggy, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the breaded chicken. Using a thermometer to check the oil’s temperature (around 350°F) can be very helpful. Furthermore, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding causes the oil temperature to drop, resulting in uneven cooking and greasy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. When pounding the chicken, make sure to do it evenly to ensure it cooks at the same rate. Lastly, don’t skip the wire rack for draining. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, keeping the breading crispier for longer. Experiment with different spices and herbs in your flour mixture to customize the flavor of your Chicken Fried Chicken. A pinch of onion powder, dried thyme, or even a dash of smoked paprika can add a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Fried Chicken shines as the star of any meal, offering versatility that complements a range of sides. For a classic Southern pairing, consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes and a generous helping of country gravy. The richness of the gravy complements the crispy chicken, creating a comforting and satisfying combination. Alternatively, lighten things up with a fresh coleslaw or a simple green salad. The crispness and tanginess of these salads provide a welcome contrast to the fried chicken. A side of buttery corn on the cob or green beans can also add a touch of sweetness and freshness to the meal. Try serving your Chicken Fried Chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayonnaise for a delicious sandwich. To elevate the flavors, consider adding a slice of crispy bacon or a tangy pickle. It is a customizable main dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Fried Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a versatile, quick, and delicious way to bring joy to your dinner table. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior offer a satisfying textural experience that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Furthermore, the ability to customize the spices and sides allows you to cater to different palates and preferences. What truly sets it apart is its simplicity, as it combines readily available ingredients with easy-to-follow steps. Embracing this recipe means embracing a tradition of flavorful, homemade cooking that fits seamlessly into a modern lifestyle. So, get ready to create memorable meals and savor the goodness of Chicken Fried Chicken.