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If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and downright comforting with every bite, you’re in for a treat with this Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe. This southern-style classic takes simple, humble ingredients and transforms them into a soul-satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Perfectly seasoned and fried chicken meets a luscious, creamy gravy that’s nothing short of dreamy—making every forkful memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor, texture, and that iconic golden color you expect from a perfect chicken fried chicken. Trust me, these pantry staples come together effortlessly to deliver a plate full of joy.
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender, juicy base of this dish that soaks up the seasoning and stays moist.
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor in every bite.
- 1.5 teaspoons paprika: Gives the chicken a warm, inviting color and subtle smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory aroma and depth into the crust.
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder: Brings natural sweetness and additional flavor complexity.
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour: The secret to a crispy, crunchy dredge that locks in the chicken’s juices.
- 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten to help the flour stick and form that perfect crust.
- 0.75 cup milk: Adds moisture to the egg wash and ensures tender coating.
- 2 dashes hot sauce: Just enough heat to brighten the flavor of the wash.
- 2 cups canola oil: Ideal for shallow frying to get that golden brown finish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the gravy.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the luscious country gravy.
- 2 cups warmed whole milk: Creates the creamy base of the dreamy country gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Balances the gravy’s flavor perfectly.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper: Warms up the gravy with gentle spice.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting dry the chicken breasts to help the coating stick better. Season the chicken evenly with Kosher salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This blend not only flavors the chicken but also gives you that vibrant color we love in southern fried chicken.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
In one bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and hot sauce together. This mixture will moisten the chicken and add a subtle kick. In another large bowl, place the all-purpose flour. Dip each seasoned chicken breast first into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour to coat every inch. For extra crispiness, double-dip by repeating the egg wash and flour step before frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the oil, cooking for about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. The goal is a golden crust that gives way to juicy, tender meat within. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature steady and crispiness intact.
Step 4: Make the Dreamy Country Gravy
While your chicken finishes cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color—this is your roux, which thickens the gravy without lumps. Slowly pour in the warmed whole milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to balance the flavors. If it gets too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once your chicken is cooked through and golden, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Spoon that creamy dreamy country gravy generously over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Your Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe is now ready for the spotlight.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness beautifully. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top of the gravy also amps up the aroma and visual appeal, inviting everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob complement the indulgence perfectly. For a lighter touch, try serving with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the dish’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, try serving the chicken and gravy over fluffy biscuits, creating an impressive open-faced sandwich that’s both rustic and refined. Or pile the chicken atop warm mac and cheese for an extra special comfort food experience that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your chicken fried chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while retaining much of its crisp texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the fried chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer it to a freezer bag once solid. This helps maintain the crispy coating. The gravy is best stored separately in a freezer-safe jar. Both can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring leftover Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe back to life, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. Reheat the gravy gently on the stove while stirring frequently to prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken adds extra flavor and juiciness, but be prepared for a longer cooking time to ensure it’s cooked through and crispy all over.
What can I substitute for canola oil?
Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil are great alternatives for frying due to their high smoke points, helping you achieve that perfect golden crust safely.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for frying and ensure your ingredients like paprika and hot sauce are gluten-free as well.
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
If you want thicker gravy, add a bit more flour when making the roux or simmer it a little longer. For thinner gravy, whisk in additional warm milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I prepare any steps the day before?
Definitely. You can season and dredge the chicken the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just fry it fresh for the best crispiness. You can also prepare the gravy ahead and reheat gently when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe that feels like home on a plate. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or to wow your guests. Roll up your sleeves, get frying, and enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite—you’re in for a real delight!
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Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken with Dreamy Country Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 pieces)
- Category: Entree
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. Served with a rich and creamy dreamy country gravy made from butter, flour, and warmed whole milk, this comforting Southern-style dish is perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of crispy fried chicken and luscious gravy creates a classic dish that is sure to satisfy any craving for homestyle comfort food.
Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
- 1.5 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 0.75 cup milk
- 2 dashes hot sauce
- 2 cups canola oil
For the Country Gravy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups warmed whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the 1 tablespoon Kosher salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly with this spice mixture to enhance flavor and aroma.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, 0.75 cup milk, and 2 dashes of hot sauce. This mixture helps the flour adhere to the chicken and adds a subtle heat to the coating.
- Dredge the Chicken: Place 2.5 cups all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour, ensuring each piece is completely coated for maximum crispiness.
- Heat the Oil: Pour 2 cups of canola oil into a large skillet or frying pan and heat over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Proper oil temperature is essential for a crispy crust and to avoid greasiness.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the hot oil. Fry each side for approximately 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Country Gravy: In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for a couple of minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Add the Milk and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of warmed whole milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat until the gravy thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with 1 teaspoon Kosher salt and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Serve: Plate the crispy fried chicken breasts and generously spoon the dreamy country gravy over them. Enjoy this classic comfort dish hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature is maintained at medium heat to cook chicken evenly without burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is fully cooked to avoid undercooking.
- Warm the milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps in the gravy.
- You can substitute canola oil with vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying.
- For extra crispy coating, double dredge the chicken by dipping it again into the egg mixture and flour before frying.
