Chicken-Fried Chicken
A Crispy Comfort Food Classic Made Lighter
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken-Fried Chicken recipe. Featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a perfectly seasoned crispy crust, this dish delivers classic Southern flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. Serve it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: Southern American
SERVINGS: 4 servings
EQUIPMENT:
- Large skillet or cast-iron skillet
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Mixing bowls (2-3)
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Paper towel-lined plate
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain Greek yogurt thinned with milk)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup whole wheat or all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3-4 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil (for frying)
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap.
- Pound to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet.
- In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
- Submerge the chicken in the mixture and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even, well-coated crust.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the coated chicken into the skillet without overcrowding.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
- Serve hot with freshly ground black pepper and your favorite healthy sides.
- Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Chicken-Fried Chicken!
TIPS:
- For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes on a wire rack, flipping halfway through.
- Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Pair with mashed cauliflower, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal.
KEYWORD: Chicken-Fried Chicken, Southern, Comfort Food
