Chicken Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 c.whole buttermilk
- ¼ c.pickle juice
from the jar
- 1 largeegg
- 2 lb.boneless
skinless chicken thighs
- 1 ½ c.self-rising flour
- 1 tbsp.seasoned salt
- 2 tsp.ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp.cayenne pepper
- vegetable or peanut oil
for frying
- ¼ c.salted butter
- ⅓ c.all-purpose flour
- 4 c.warm whole milk
divided
- ¾ tsp.salt
plus more taste
- ½ tsp.ground black pepper
Directions
- 1
For the chicken: Whisk together the buttermilk, pickle juice, and egg in a medium bowl until smooth. Add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture; cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours.)
- 2
Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 10 minutes before frying. In a medium shallow bowl, stir together the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and 3 tablespoons of the chicken marinade until well combined (the mixture will be pebble-y). Working with one piece of chicken at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, patting to coat. Shake off the excess flour, and transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- 3
Add oil to a depth of 1 1/2 inches in a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°.
- 4
Preheat the oven to 200°.
- 5
When the oil is hot enough, fry the chicken, in batches, until golden brown on both sides, 3 to 4 minutes per side, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. (The internal temperature of the chicken should read 165° on an instant read thermometer when finished.) Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Keep warm in the oven.
- 6
For the gravy: Discard the remaining oil in the skillet; wipe the skillet clean. Add the butter to the skillet; heat over medium heat until the butter melts. Sprinkle the flour over the butter; cook, whisking constantly, until the flour smells toasty and turns light golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- 7
Gradually add 3 cups of the milk, whisking to break up any clumps. Add salt and pepper, and bring to gentle simmer. Cook, whisking frequently, until the gravy is smooth and thickened, about 3 minutes. Add more milk, if needed; season with additional salt and black pepper.
- 8
Divide the chicken among plates; spoon over the warm gravy. Sprinkle with more black pepper.
Chicken Fried Chicken
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 3 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving that ultimate Southern comfort food experience right in your own kitchen? This Chicken Fried Chicken recipe delivers on every promise of tender, juicy chicken encased in a perfectly golden, crispy crust, all smothered in a rich, savory gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe truly special is the thoughtful combination of ingredients that ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. The chicken is marinated in a buttermilk and pickle juice blend, a brilliant technique that works wonders to tenderize the meat while infusing it with a subtle tangy depth. The seasoned flour mixture, combined with the frying method, guarantees an incredibly crispy coating that truly sets this dish apart.
Prepare for a hearty, satisfying meal that evokes warmth and nostalgia. You'll savor chicken that's impossibly tender on the inside, with a gloriously crunchy exterior, complemented by a creamy, peppery homemade gravy. This American classic is perfect for any occasion when you need a dish that feels like a big, comforting hug, making it an ideal choice for celebrations like Father's Day or a relaxed summer gathering.
This versatile recipe welcomes a variety of chicken cuts, so feel free to use boneless thighs, breasts, or cutlets based on your preference. For those who enjoy a little extra kick, you can easily adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoned flour. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can create a suitable substitute by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour.
Serve this Chicken Fried Chicken hot, generously drizzled with its accompanying homemade gravy. It's a wonderful main dish that pairs beautifully with classic comfort food sides, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your family and friends.