Go Back
Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe with Gravy

Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe with Gravy

This Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe with Gravy is a classic Southern-style comfort dish made with boneless chicken breasts that are tenderized, coated in seasoned flour, fried until golden and crispy, and served with rich homemade white gravy.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottom skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowls (2–3)
  • Whisk
  • Tongs for flipping chicken
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Plate or tray for dredging flour
  • Paper towels or wire rack
  • Medium saucepan (for gravy)

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Oil for frying

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter or pan drippings
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
  • Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes. If you have more time, marinate for up to 2 hours for extra tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Coating

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Mix well so every bite of chicken will be evenly seasoned.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

  • Remove each chicken breast from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
  • Coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken so it sticks well. For extra crispiness, you can double-dip: dip back into buttermilk and coat again.

Step 4: Heat the Oil Properly

  • Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) if you’re using a thermometer.
  • Proper temperature is key to getting that golden, crispy crust.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

  • Carefully place chicken in the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  • Fry for about 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked inside. The crust should be crisp and beautifully textured.
  • Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

  • In a separate saucepan (or the same pan using drippings), melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
  • Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Continue cooking until the gravy thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 7: Serve

  • Place crispy chicken on a plate and generously pour warm gravy over the top.
  • Serve immediately while everything is hot, crispy, and creamy.

Notes

  • Pound chicken evenly for consistent cooking
  • Always use medium heat for frying
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan
  • Whisk gravy constantly to avoid lumps
  • Season flour generously for better flavor
Keyword Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe with Gravy