Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
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There is something utterly comforting and downright irresistible about this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe. Crispy, golden chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy breading paired with a creamy, luscious homemade gravy makes for a soul-satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Southern classic combines simple ingredients and timeless techniques to create a dish that everyone will beg for seconds on, whether served for a cozy family dinner or a Sunday gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes the magic happen in this recipe are ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, but each one plays a critical role in building layers of bold flavor and comforting texture. From tender chicken breasts to spices and the creamy gravy components, everything comes together beautifully with minimal fuss.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that crisps up perfectly when butterflied and breaded.
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning: Simple spices that bring out the savory base taste of the chicken.
- Vegetable oil and butter: Both used for frying, combine to deliver the golden, crisp breading and add richness.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for both the crunchy breading and the thick, creamy gravy.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky depth and a gorgeous color to the breading.
- Steak seasoning: Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of complexity and warmth.
- Milk and egg: The perfect duo to create a light batter that keeps the coating tender yet crisp.
- Salt and pepper for the gravy: To season the sauce just right and balance the richness.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by butterflying the chicken breasts lengthwise so they cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning step ensures each bite is packed with flavor before the crisp breading is even added.
Step 2: Make the Breading and Batter
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning to create a flavorful coating mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and egg together until smooth. This classic breading process helps lock in moisture while giving you that perfect crunchy exterior.
Step 3: Bread and Fry the Chicken
First dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the milk and egg batter, and finally back into the flour mixture for a double coating. Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. The double breading plus butter in the oil is what gives that iconic crispy texture we all love so much.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
After frying, pour off all but about one-third cup of the oil from the skillet, leaving the flavorful drippings behind. Add an equal amount of flour to the drippings and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to make a roux. Slowly whisk in three cups of milk and continue cooking while stirring until the gravy thickens to a rich, smooth consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper. This homemade gravy is the crowning glory of the dish, turning simple fried chicken into a hearty feast.
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a burst of color and a light freshness that balances the richness of the chicken and gravy. A few crispy fried onions or a dash of smoked paprika can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, or warm buttermilk biscuits are perfect partners to this country-style meal. Each side adds a different texture or flavor note, rounding out the plate beautifully and making the experience complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, place the chicken on a large platter with gravy served in a gravy boat on the side for passing. For a more casual approach, serve atop a bed of mashed potatoes so the gravy naturally pools around the chicken. You can even make mini sandwiches with leftover chicken for a fun twist that tastes just as delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fried chicken and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken stays crispy for a day or two, and the gravy keeps its silky smooth texture well when reheated gently.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When freezing, wrap the chicken pieces individually to prevent them from sticking together and losing texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the gravy slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. The chicken is best reheated in the oven to help restore some crispiness — just pop it on a baking sheet at 375°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and crunchy again.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking, thighs or drumsticks can also work well with a slight adjustment in frying time and careful monitoring to ensure doneness without burning the coating.
Is there a gluten-free way to make this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for both breading and gravy. Make sure your seasoning blends are gluten-free too. The result will be just as delicious and crispy.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can use other neutral oils with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil. Some people prefer lard or bacon fat for a richer, more traditional Southern flavor, but vegetable oil works perfectly well.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and easiest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also no longer be pink inside and the juices should run clear.
Can I make the gravy dairy-free?
Definitely! Use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free butter substitute. The gravy might be slightly different in texture but will still provide that creamy, comforting finish everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
Tackling this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe is truly a joy—the crispy chicken, the flavorful breading, and that luscious homemade gravy come together to create a meal that’s both nostalgic and remarkably simple. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or to treat yourself any night of the week, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite that fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles.
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Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This classic Country Fried Chicken and Gravy recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts doubled breaded and pan-fried to a crispy golden brown, then smothered in a rich, creamy homemade gravy. It’s a comforting Southern favorite that’s perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste (for chicken)
- Black pepper, to taste (for chicken)
- Garlic powder, to taste (for chicken)
- ⅔ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Breading and Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
- 2 teaspoons salt (for breading)
- 2 teaspoons black pepper (for breading)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Gravy
- ⅓ cup reserved frying oil (from cooking chicken)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 3 cups milk (for gravy)
- Salt, to taste (for gravy)
- Black pepper, to taste (for gravy)
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces for even cooking. Season both sides of each piece generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
- Make Breading and Batter: In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons each of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. In another bowl, whisk the egg with 1 cup of milk until well combined.
- Bread and Fry Chicken: Coat each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the milk and egg batter, and finally dredge back into the flour mixture for a double coating. Heat ⅔ cup vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- Make Gravy: Pour off all but ⅓ cup of the oil from the skillet used for frying. Add ⅓ cup flour to this oil and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in 3 cups of milk and continue to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the fried chicken and generously spoon the creamy gravy over the top. Serve hot for a classic, comforting meal.
Notes
- Butterflying the chicken helps it cook evenly and remain juicy inside.
- Double dredging the chicken ensures a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Use a thermometer to check for doneness to avoid undercooked or dry chicken.
- Adjust seasoning in the gravy to your taste, adding more pepper or salt as needed.
- Leftover gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
