Print

Country Fried Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This country fried chicken recipe is a comforting classic with crispy, golden chicken smothered in creamy homemade gravy. Pan-fried to perfection, it’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs, pounded thin
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus 2 tbsp for gravy)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup buttermilk or milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 2 tbsp butter (for gravy)
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or milk (for gravy)

Instructions

  1. Pound chicken breasts or thighs to an even thickness.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk (or milk) and egg. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
  3. Dredge chicken in flour, then dip into egg mixture, then coat again in flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Pan-fry chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Transfer to a wire rack to rest.
  6. For gravy: reduce skillet heat to medium, melt butter in drippings, whisk in 2 tbsp flour, and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth (or milk) until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve chicken hot, smothered with gravy.

Notes

  • Boneless thighs or breasts cook quickly and evenly, but bone-in pieces may also be used with adjusted cook time.
  • Add hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for extra flavor.
  • Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes for a lighter version.
  • An air fryer works at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Pat chicken dry and press flour firmly to help the coating stick.

Nutrition