Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe

If you are craving the ultimate comfort food that brings together irresistible crunch and creamy, savory goodness, you have to try this Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe. This dish transforms simple chicken breasts into golden, crispy delights coated in a perfectly seasoned batter, then smothered in rich, homemade gravy that’s just bursting with flavor. It’s like a warm hug on a plate and the kind of meal everyone will keep asking for again and again. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe lies in using straightforward, staple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays its role perfectly, from the buttermilk’s tenderizing magic to the flour mixture’s golden coating, creating layers of texture and flavor that make this dish unforgettable.

• Thin sliced chicken breasts: The star ingredient, ensuring quick, even cooking and a tender bite inside the crispy coating.
• All-purpose flour: The base for the crunchy coating and thickening the gravy, giving you that classic golden crust and creamy finish.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents add extra lightness to the flour mixture, enhancing the crispiness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that brings out and balances all the dish’s flavors.
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic warmth, elevating the taste without overpowering the chicken.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken beautifully while adding a slight tangy richness to the batter.
• Egg: Helps bind the coating to the chicken, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly dressed in crunchy goodness.
• Hot sauce: Just a touch adds a gentle kick and complexity in your buttermilk marinade.
• Oil for frying: Vital for achieving that picture-perfect golden finish with a satisfying crunch.
• Milk: Used to create the luscious, creamy homemade gravy that ties the dish together.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oil and Flour Mixture

Start by heating your frying oil in a deep fryer or a pan, about a few inches deep, to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is crucial to getting that irresistible crisp without overcooking the chicken inside. Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl. This seasoned flour mixture is what will give your chicken that signature golden crust with just the right amount of seasoning in every bite.

Step 2: Mix the Buttermilk Marinade

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk together with the egg and hot sauce. This tangy and slightly spicy mixture will tenderize the chicken and add a moist, flavorful layer between the crispy coatings. It’s a simple step but tremendously important to the success of the Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each thin sliced chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to fully coat it. Then, dip it into the buttermilk marinade, allowing it to soak in a little before returning it to the flour mixture for a second coat. Press the flour firmly into the chicken to build that thick, crunchy exterior that will make this recipe truly special. This double-dip method ensures maximum crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken to Perfection

Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, frying each side for 3 to 5 minutes until a golden brown crust forms. Do not overcrowd your pan to keep the oil temperature steady and produce the crunch you’re after. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken pieces. Trust me, there’s nothing like the sound and smell of frying chicken that promises an amazing meal ahead.

Step 5: Whip Up the Homemade Gravy

Using about 1/4 cup of the oil you just used for frying (this adds incredible depth), heat it over medium-high in a large pan. Stir in 1/3 cup of flour and cook for about a minute until absorbed, then gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk. Let the mixture cook and thicken while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The result? A creamy, dreamy gravy that perfectly complements the crispy chicken and ties the whole dish together.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the gravy for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds a rustic touch that makes the dish look and taste even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with classic mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of gravy. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try making mini chicken fried chicken sliders with a drizzle of gravy on brioche buns, perfect for a party or casual gathering. Or plate the chicken atop a bed of creamy grits or buttery corn for a Southern-inspired indulgence that feels like a feast at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days to enjoy the next day. The homemade gravy keeps well alongside the chicken when stored in a separate container to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover fried chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap each piece well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freezing the gravy is also possible but store it separately in a sealed container to maintain the best texture upon reheating.

Reheating

To retain that much-loved crispness when reheating, warm chicken pieces in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven on a wire rack inside a baking sheet for around 10-15 minutes. Reheat the gravy gently on the stove over low heat, whisking occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of buttermilk, but the classic flavor and tenderness may be slightly less pronounced in the Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe.

What oil is best for frying this chicken?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. This ensures even frying without imparting extra flavors or burning, which is essential for achieving that perfect crispy crust.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Since the chicken breasts are thin, frying for 3 to 5 minutes per side at 325°F usually cooks them through. For extra safety, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the gravy in advance and gently reheat it before serving. Just whisk it over low heat to restore its creamy texture without breaking the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe keeps well in the fridge and can be paired with different sides throughout the week for easy, satisfying meals.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Homemade Gravy Recipe is a perfect harmony of crispy textures and rich, comforting flavors that will quickly find a special place in your meal rotation. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight, yet deliciously impressive for entertaining. I can’t wait for you to dig in and see why this dish is one of my all-time favorites to share with friends and family!

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