Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken: A Comfort Food Delight
What Makes Chicken Fried Chicken So Comforting?
There's something about easy homemade chicken fried chicken that pulls at the heartstrings and warms the soul. Perhaps it’s the crispy, golden exterior that sends a satisfying crunch with each bite, perfectly embracing the juicy, tender chicken within. This dish isn’t just a meal; it's an experience that takes you back to family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and comfort food memories.
The beauty of chicken fried chicken lies in its simplicity. It uses familiar ingredients, making it feel approachable for any home cook. When you marinate the chicken in buttermilk, the result is a flavor that's moist and seasoned throughout, ensuring every bite is packed with comfort. Let's not forget the delightful contrast between the crispy coating and the juicy meat—it's a textural dream come true!
Pair it with mashed potatoes and your favorite gravy, and you have an effortless yet satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. For a deeper dive into those perfect side dishes, check out this guide to classic Southern sides. Whether for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, easy homemade chicken fried chicken will always hit the spot!
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Chicken Ingredients
To create your delicious easy homemade chicken fried chicken, you'll need fresh ingredients that are simple to work with. Gather:
- 2 large chicken breasts: They provide the perfect base for your fried chicken, offering tender meat that stays juicy.
- 2 cups buttermilk: This adds incredible moisture and flavor—plus, it helps the seasoned flour adhere perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chicken's natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild kick to your dish.
- 1 egg: A binding agent that gives your fried chicken an extra layer of crispiness.
Seasoned Flour Ingredients
The coating is what makes your chicken fried chicken stand out! For a scrumptious crunch, you'll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the crunchy coating.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds that extra bit of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key!
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky flavor and gorgeous color.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: For a richer taste.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like some heat!
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda and baking powder: These help create a light, crispy texture.
With these ingredients on hand, you're just a few steps away from enjoying your very own easy homemade chicken fried chicken!
Step-by-step Preparation for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Making easy homemade chicken fried chicken can seem a bit daunting at first, but let me tell you: it’s much simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for a delightful dish that brings southern comfort right to your kitchen.
Prepare the chicken
Start by selecting your chicken breasts. You’ll want two large ones, which you'll butterfly for even cooking. Lay each breast flat on the cutting board and slice horizontally, keeping the knife parallel to the surface. This technique yields two plump fillets from each breast.
Once cut, cover the chicken with parchment paper and gently pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or a heavy pan. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also tenderizes the meat. Now, it’s time to soak those fillets in a buttermilk marinade. Mix 2 cups of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper in a non-metallic bowl. Submerge your chicken in this delicious mixture, letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If you're curious about the benefits of buttermilk in marinades, check out this article by Serious Eats.
Make the marinade
Your buttermilk marinade is not just a flavor enhancer; it also helps create that coveted juicy texture. It acts as a natural tenderizer, with its acidity working to break down proteins in the chicken. As the chicken marinates, it’ll absorb all those lovely flavors while remaining moist.
Mix the seasoned flour
While your chicken is soaking, let’s make the coating! In a large bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of ground black pepper and salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon each of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a kick), onion powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. This mixture is where the magic happens, giving you that crispy exterior.
Coat the chicken
After the marinating time, remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk and whisk one egg into the remaining marinade. Dip each chicken fillet into the seasoned flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk and egg mixture before returning it to the flour. This double-dipping is key for achieving that ultra-crispy coating we all crave.
Fry the chicken
Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to reach about 340ºF (170ºC) — if you don’t have a thermometer, just drop a bit of the flour mixture in the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Cook the chicken two at a time, letting each fillet fry for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remember to resist the urge to flip too often; letting it sit will develop a better crust. Once done, place your chicken on paper towels to drain excess oil, and keep them warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
With these steps, you're well on your way to mastering the art of easy homemade chicken fried chicken! Don’t forget to serve it hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and gravy for that authentic southern charm. Enjoy!
Variations on Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Spicy Chicken Fried Chicken
If you crave an extra kick, spicy chicken fried chicken is your answer! Simply add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. For a flavorful twist, consider including a dash of your favorite hot spice blend in the seasoned flour. This easy variation does wonders for giving your plate that extra zing, whether you serve it with traditional sides or atop spicy slaw for a kick.
Chicken Fried Chicken Sandwiches
Turn your easy homemade chicken fried chicken into a satisfying sandwich! Once your chicken is golden brown, simply stack it on a toasted bun with lettuce, mayo, and pickles. You can even layer on some crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham for added flavor. These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, and they make great picnic fare too! For more sandwich inspiration, don't forget to check out this great resource on creative sandwich ideas.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Tips for Ensuring Crispy Coating
To achieve that perfectly crispy coating on your easy homemade chicken fried chicken, initiate the process with well-seasoned flour. Combine your dry ingredients evenly, and remember to coat the chicken twice—once in the seasoned flour, then again after the buttermilk dip. For an extra crunch, consider adding cornstarch to the flour mix!
Notes on Oil Temperature
The ideal oil temperature for frying is around 340ºF/170ºC. A good trick is to drop in a pinch of the flour mixture; it should sizzle vigorously. If it burns, the oil is too hot. Conversely, if it sinks without bubbling, it's not hot enough. Using a thermometer makes this easier, but experience does too! For more frying tips, check out Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Traditional Southern Sides
To elevate your easy homemade chicken fried chicken, classic Southern sides are a must! Pair it with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes drizzled with rich white gravy
- Tender green beans sautéed with a hint of garlic and butter
- Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
These comforting sides not only complement the crispy chicken but also create a well-rounded meal that resonates with soul food traditions.
Unique Serving Ideas
Want to mix things up? Try these fun serving ideas for your easy homemade chicken fried chicken:
- Brunch Delight: Serve with hash browns, a sunny-side-up egg, and fried mushrooms for a hearty start to your day.
- Lunch on-the-go: Stuff it in a soft bread roll with crisp lettuce and creamy mayo for a satisfying sandwich.
- Cheesy Indulgence: Pair it with cheesy pasta for an unexpected twist that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
These suggestions will keep your mealtime exciting and tasty! For more delicious sides and recipes, check out Southern Living for inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting started is a breeze with a preparation time of just 10 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken, which can be done while you get everything else ready.
Cooking Time
Once the chicken is marinated, you'll only need 8 minutes to cook it to crispy perfection. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it sizzles in the oil!
Total Time
From start to serving, the total time for this easy homemade chicken fried chicken recipe is approximately 48 minutes. This allows for a delicious delay as the chicken marinates, ensuring it comes out flavorful every time.
For more tips on timing in the kitchen, check out this guide on meal prep. Enjoy your cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Calories
Each serving of this easy homemade chicken fried chicken packs about 448 calories, making it a satisfying meal without overindulging.
Protein
You’ll get an impressive 38 grams of protein per serving, perfect for fueling your active lifestyle or recovering after a workout.
Sodium
Keep an eye on your sodium intake; this dish contains around 900 mg of sodium per serving. Consider pairing it with fresh veggies to create a well-rounded meal.
For more nutrition tips, visit Healthline or Mayo Clinic, and take control of your dietary choices!
FAQs about Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe focuses on chicken breasts for their tenderness, you can experiment with other parts such as thighs or drumsticks. Just remember, they may require different cooking times. For example, thighs might take a bit longer to cook to ensure they're fully done. No matter what, you’ll get that delightful crispy coating you crave!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers from your easy homemade chicken fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for a month. When it’s time to reheat, pop them in the oven to maintain their crispiness rather than using the microwave.
What are the best sides to serve with chicken fried chicken?
For a classic Southern meal, serve your easy homemade chicken fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans. Other delightful options include cornbread, coleslaw, or even a fresh garden salad. Pairing these sides will elevate your comfort food experience! Want to explore more sides? Check out this article for additional inspiration!
Conclusion on Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
In just a short time, you can enjoy easy homemade chicken fried chicken, a dish bursting with flavor and crunch! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe encourages both culinary creativity and comfort. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!
Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Chicken
Equipment
- large heavy-based skillet
- meat mallet
- non-metallic bowl
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the seasoned flour
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
To Cook
- 1 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare the chicken
- Mix the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper in a non-metallic bowl.
- Lay the chicken breasts flat on the board, cut sideways through the breast to create two fillets. Repeat with the second chicken breast.
- Cover the chicken with parchment paper or plastic wrap and flatten to an equal thickness.
- Add the chicken to the buttermilk and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
To make the coating
- Mix the coating ingredients together in a bowl.
When you are ready to cook
- Preheat oven to 230ºF/110ºC.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and whisk one egg into the buttermilk.
- Dip chicken into seasoned flour, coat with buttermilk and egg mixture, then return to flour to coat fully.
- Place the coated chicken on a plate.
- Pour vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat.
- Ensure oil is about 340ºF/170ºC, then cook chicken fillets two at a time for 2 minutes each side until browned.
- Drain cooked chicken on paper towels and place in the oven while frying remaining fillets.
- Serve immediately.
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