Chicken-Fried Chicken Recipe

Chicken-Fried Chicken Recipe

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Chicken-Fried Chicken

Crispy, Golden Comfort Food Classic

This Chicken-Fried Chicken recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown perfection on the outside with tender, juicy chicken on the inside. Coated in a well-seasoned crust and pan-fried to crunchy goodness, this comforting Southern favorite is perfect for a hearty family dinner. Serve it with wholesome sides for a satisfying and nourishing meal.

PREP TIME: 20 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: Southern
SERVINGS: 4 servings

EQUIPMENT:

  • Large skillet (cast iron preferred)
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Mixing bowls (2-3)
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Paper towel-lined plate

INGREDIENTS:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.
  2. Pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet.
  3. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the chicken in a bowl with buttermilk and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  3. Dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
  4. Place coated chicken on a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to help the crust set.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet.
  3. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for added freshness.
  2. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
  3. Enjoy your crispy, homemade Chicken-Fried Chicken!

TIPS:

  • For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping it back into buttermilk and flour before frying.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without overcooking.
  • For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

KEYWORD: Chicken-Fried Chicken, Southern, Comfort Food

Author

  • Hello, I'm Brandt, a Certified Grillmaster, chef, and culinary enthusiast with a lifelong passion for creating exceptional flavors through grilling and cooking. Over the past 30 years, I've honed my barbecue skills on a wide range of smokers, grills, and culinary techniques. I've served as a BBQ judge and earned awards and recognition for my achievements in the world of barbecue.

    I'm also an author, writer, and contributor to sites such as Fine Cooking, The Food Chronicles, My Tasty Dish, and The Cooking. I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and guiding you on your culinary journey.

    Join me as we dive deep into the art of grilling, where I'll be unveiling my time-tested tips and secret recipes that bring people together, one sizzle at a time!

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Last updated: February 16, 2026