Best Country Fried Chicken Recipe

Have you ever wondered what makes country fried chicken recipe so irresistibly delicious? Is it the crispy golden crust, the tender juicy meat, or the comforting flavors that remind us of home? If you’ve ever tried to recreate this classic dish at home but struggled to achieve that perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, you’re not alone. Many home cooks face challenges like soggy breading, dry meat, or lackluster seasoning. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the art of making the perfect country fried chicken recipe, ensuring that every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Country fried chicken recipe, also known as chicken fried steak, is a beloved Southern dish that has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. But what sets it apart from other fried chicken recipes? The key lies in the unique combination of a flavorful batter, a crispy coating, and a rich, creamy gravy that ties it all together. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the world of country fried chicken recipe!

Ingredients List

To create the perfect country fried chicken recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some tips for substitutions and variations:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts (4 large or 6 small): The star of the show! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can also work beautifully.
  • Substitutions: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using pork cutlets or even firm tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Buttermilk (1 cup or 240 ml): The secret to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Substitutions: Plain yogurt thinned with a bit of milk can also work as a substitute.

For the Breading:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups or 240 grams): The base of the crispy coating.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup or 30 grams): Adds an extra crispy texture to the breading.
  • Substitutions: Arrowroot powder can be used as an alternative.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): Helps to create a light, airy texture in the breading.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, slightly smoky flavor and a beautiful golden color.
  • Substitutions: Smoked paprika can be used for a more intense flavor.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the breading with a savory, garlicky flavor.
  • Substitutions: Onion powder can be used for a milder flavor.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the breading.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of heat and depth.

For the Gravy:

• Bacon Drippings (2 tablespoons) or Butter (2 tablespoons or 28 grams): Provides a rich, savory base for the gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons or 16 grams): Thickens the gravy.
• Milk (1 1/2 cups or 355 ml): Creates a creamy base for the gravy.
  • Substitutions: Half-and-half or heavy cream can be used for a richer gravy.
• Chicken Broth (1/2 cup or 120 ml): Adds depth of flavor to the gravy.
  • Substitutions: Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances the flavors in the gravy.ravy.

For Frying:

• Vegetable Oil (1-2 cups or 240-480 ml): Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.

Timing

Preparation, Cooking, and Total Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or special occasions. The best part? It’s 30% faster than the average fried chicken recipe, so you can enjoy your meal in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
   • Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
   • Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Breading the Chicken

2. Prepare the Breading Mixture:
   • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Dredge each piece of chicken in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
   • Shake off any excess breading and set the chicken aside on a plate.

Frying the Chicken

4. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
5. Fry the Chicken:
   • Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
   • Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Use tongs to flip the chicken gently to avoid splattering hot oil.
   • Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Making the Gravy

6. Prepare the Roux:
   • In a separate skillet, melt the bacon drippings or butter over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and stir continuously to create a roux, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown.
7. Add the Liquids:
   • Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
   • Add the chicken broth and continue stirring until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Season the Gravy:
   • Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
   • If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serving the Dish

9. Assemble the Dish:
   • Place the fried chicken on a serving platter.
   • Ladle the warm gravy over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
    • Serve the country fried chicken recipe hot, accompanied by your favorite sides.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients. The chicken offers a lean source of protein, while the breading and gravy add richness and flavor. For a lighter option, consider the healthier alternatives below.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Modifications and Ingredient Swaps

1. Leaner Protein:
   • Use chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option.
   • Substitute the chicken with turkey cutlets for a lower-fat alternative.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
   • Use a gluten-free flour blend for the breading to make the recipe gluten-free.
3. Lower-Fat Gravy:
   • Use low-fat milk or almond milk for a lighter gravy.
   • Substitute bacon drippings with a small amount of olive oil for a healthier fat source.
4. Baked Instead of Fried:
   • For a healthier cooking method, bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Vegetarian Option:
   • Use firm tofu or tempeh as a plant-based alternative to chicken.
   • Ensure the tofu is pressed and marinated in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before breading.

Serving Suggestions

Creative and Appealing Ideas

1. Classic Comfort:
   • Serve the country fried chicken recipe with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic Southern meal.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy for a spicy twist.
   • Serve with a side of coleslaw to balance the heat.
3. Family-Style:
   • Present the dish family-style on a large platter, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
   • Pair with a variety of sides like corn on the cob, biscuits, and a fresh garden salad.
4. Brunch Option:
   • Serve the country fried chicken recipe over a bed of fluffy waffles for a hearty brunch option.
   • Top with a fried egg and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Typical Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Overcrowding the Skillet:
   • Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy breading. Fry in batches to maintain the oil’s heat.
2. Underseasoning the Breading:
   • Ensure the breading mixture is well-seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the flavors.
3. Not Marinating the Chicken:
   • Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is crucial for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor. Don’t skip this step!
4. Using Cold Ingredients:
   • Make sure all ingredients, including the chicken and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the best results.
5. Overcooking the Gravy:
   • Be careful not to overcook the gravy, as it can become too thick and lose its creamy texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Practical Advice on Storing Leftovers

1. Refrigerator:
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
   • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
2. Freezer:
   • You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
   • Note that the gravy may separate upon thawing, so it’s best to make it fresh.

Make-Ahead Tips

1. Prepare the Breading:
   • You can prepare the breading mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight to save time on the day of cooking.

Conclusion

Country fried chicken recipe is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its crispy golden crust, tender meat, and rich gravy, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you! Don’t forget to share your feedback in the review section or leave a comment on our blog. Subscribe for more updates and exciting recipes!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer, more flavorful option. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for ease of cooking.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What can I serve with country fried chicken recipe?

Country fried chicken recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, and biscuits. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh garden salad.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is cooked when it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the breading to make the recipe gluten-free.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use canola oil or peanut oil for frying. Just ensure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken.

What are the health benefits of buttermilk?

Buttermilk is low in fat and calories and contains essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. It also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it more flavorful and juicy.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

Yes, you can use leaner cuts of chicken, low-fat milk for the gravy, and bake the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier option.

How do I reheat the leftovers?

You can reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for a quicker option, though the breading may not be as crispy.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious country fried chicken recipe!