Imagine biting into a crispy, golden piece of chicken fried chicken, where the crunch resonates like music to your ears. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone in the house to gather around the table, ready for a feast. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends practically threw their forks at me in excitement, demanding more!

Now, picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you want nothing more than to indulge in comfort food. Chicken fried chicken is perfect for such moments, transforming any mundane day into a delightful culinary adventure that leaves your taste buds dancing with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried chicken recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
- Bursting with flavor, it offers a delightful crunch that’s visually appealing on the plate.
- Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides.
- Perfectly seasoned and juicy inside, it’ll become a family favorite in no time!
I can still hear my dad’s laughter when I served this dish for his birthday last year; he couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 pieces to serve about four people comfortably.
Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken beautifully and adds richness to the flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for achieving that crunchy coating we all crave.
Cornstarch: Helps create an extra crispy texture when combined with flour.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for an aromatic kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for depth or regular for simple seasoning—your choice!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil works best; ensure you have enough for frying.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chicken fried chicken
Marinate the Chicken: Start by soaking your boneless chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least two hours or overnight if you have time. This makes them tender and flavorful.
Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Dredge the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge them thoroughly in the flour mixture until well coated.
Heat Your Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test readiness by dropping in a small amount of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Gently place coated chicken pieces into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry each side for about 5-7 minutes or until they reach that glorious golden-brown color and are cooked through.
Drain and Serve Hot!: Once cooked, transfer the chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
This delectable chicken fried chicken recipe promises not only mouthwatering flavors but also creates memories you’ll cherish forever around your dining table!
You Must Know
- The secret to chicken fried chicken is marinating your chicken overnight for tenderness.
- A good crust makes all the difference, so double-dip for extra crunch!
- Trust me, the smell of frying chicken will make your neighbors jealous.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in hot oil first, then finish it in the oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Add Your Touch
Try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the flour for a flavor boost. You can even swap buttermilk for yogurt for a tangy twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F is key!
- Don’t rush the frying process; patience yields perfect results.
There’s nothing quite like the moment my family gathers around the table, faces lighting up as they dig into my chicken fried chicken. It’s moments like these that make all my cooking efforts worthwhile.
FAQ
What is the best oil for frying chicken?
Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable or peanut oil for frying.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs add moisture and flavor to your dish.
How long should I marinate my chicken?
Marinating overnight allows flavors to infuse deeply, enhancing tenderness and taste.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken Fried Chicken is a beloved comfort food that transforms any ordinary day into a satisfying culinary experience. With its crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior, this dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The delightful crunch and rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds! Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least two hours or overnight.
- In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For an extra crispy crust, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture. You can substitute buttermilk with yogurt for a tangy twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for optimal crispiness.







