Southern-style Country Fried Chicken

This Chicken Fried Chicken is the ultimate outrageous comfort food! Why? Because this chicken is crispy but at the same time juicy, packed with flavor, and served with a spicy and creamy white gravy.

The best part of it? This Southern-style Country Fried Chicken is really simple to make!

This chicken-fried chicken is a great dinner and your family will love it! Make sure to serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, and enjoy!

Let me tell you, this recipe is a SOLID keeper. And it is so easy to master.

The crispy, golden-brown chicken and the creamy, flavorful gravy will have your family coming back for seconds — guaranteed!

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why Do We Love Country Fried Chicken?

People from the South will understand how serious the matter gets with a fried chicken in the picture. It’s ‘THE’ comfort food. And it’s all protein.

The crunchy coating, juicy meat, and rich gravy are a combination that will make you do the happy dance.

But what I really, really, REALLY like is that it takes fifteen minutes, MAX! That’s even less than the time you spend waiting for your KFC orders.

Why Are We Soaking Chicken in Buttermilk?

I had that question haunting me for some time until I found out the answer.

Buttermilk is an acid-based marinade that tenderizes and seasons the chicken. It adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the chicken moist when fried.

Plus, your breading will stick to the bird so much better when it has had a buttermilk bath.

Which Oil Should I Use?

My first choice is peanut oil. It has a very subtle flavor of its own, so it won’t overpower your bird. And the smoke point is high. So, it won’t burn.

My next best option is canola oil. It has a mild flavor and is also highly heat resistant.

Can I Use Any Other Chicken Cut?

Yes, you can definitely try other cuts.

Try drumsticks for a classic Southern feast. Or use boneless breasts for easier cleanup.

Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the cut you’re using.

Do I Have to Tenderize the Chicken First?

I do. Why? It makes it juicier. And the chicken cooks evenly. I also like how beating the bird gives it a texture so I can coat it easily.

I use a kitchen mallet or rolling pin for the tenderizing job.

Ingredients:

Ingredients for the chicken:

• Chicken Breasts (Thin-Sliced)
• Flour
• Baking Powder
• Baking Soda
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic Powder
• Buttermilk
• Egg
• Hot Sauce
• Oil (For frying)

Ingredients for the gravy:

• Reserved Oil from Frying
• Flour
• Milk
• Salt & Pepper (To Taste)

How to make Chicken Fried Chicken:

Step 1. In a large or shallow mixing bowl add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 2. In a medium-sized bowl add the egg and whisk. Then, add the hot sauce and buttermilk.

Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 3. Dredge each chicken piece into the flour mixture first, then into the egg mixture, and then back to the flour mixture again. Make sure to press the chicken hard into the flour mixture until well coated.

Step 4. In a large skillet add oil and heat to medium-low.

Step 5. Carefully add each chicken piece at a time and fry for about 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Fry them until golden brown.

Step 6. Place the fried chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 7. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1/4 of the used oil (for frying the chicken) and allow it to become hot.  Add in the flour and stir for about a minute until you get a smooth consistency.

Step 8. Slowly, add in the milk and whisk until the texture of the gravy becomes thick. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 9. To serve, top each chicken with the gravy and enjoy!

Now, remember to save this recipe on Pinterest for later 🙂

What Do I Use If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?

You don’t have to worry if you don’t have buttermilk. You can make a substitute in no time. Just mix 1 cup of milk with one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it stand for 5 minutes.

You can also try one of these:

• Mix half a cup of milk with one and a half cups of sour cream
• Make 2 cups of liquid by mixing four tablespoons of milk and plain yogurt

What Can I Serve with Country Fried Chicken?

This is probably the best part. You can pretty much do whatever you want. Just pick your favorite sides!

• I have delighted my family with something new every time.
• Our go-to sides are mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, and mac and cheese.
• You can also try cornbread, biscuits, roasted veggies, and grits.

How to Store Leftovers?

This Southern-Style country fried chicken will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to wrap it up properly and store it in an airtight container.

For a longer shelf life, you can freeze it for up to three months.

How to Use Leftovers?

I like this part so much. There are so many ways to reuse leftovers. Here are some ideas:

• Fried Chicken Salad
• Southern-Style Sandwich with mayo and pickles
• Pizza Topping
• Add it to your favorite pasta dish
• Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for an extra-indulgent dinner
• Mix with mayo and celery for a delicious salad