If you have a craving for something crispy, comforting, and downright delicious, this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s that golden, crunchy fried chicken you love, paired with rich, creamy gravy that soaks into every tender bite. This classic Southern favorite manages to be both indulgent and tremendously satisfying, making weeknight dinners and weekend meals feel extra special. The balance of spices in the coating and the velvety gravy will have you savoring every mouthful and coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe just right is all about the simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, from the crispy crust to the silky gravy that brings it all together.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Fresh and tender chicken is the heart of this dish.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder: Basic seasonings that punch up the chicken’s flavor perfectly.
- 2/3 cup of oil: Ideal for frying, it ensures that perfect crispy exterior.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: Adds richness and helps with browning in the skillet.
- 1 cup of flour: The foundation of your crispy coating and gravy thickener.
- 2 teaspoons each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning: This spice mix creates a well-rounded, flavorful crust.
- 1 cup of milk: Used both in the batter and the gravy, milk keeps everything creamy.
- 1 egg: Helps the flour stick to the chicken for that satisfying crunch.
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken: Essential for making the gravy authentic and flavorful.
- 1/3 cup of flour: Used to thicken the gravy.
- 3 cups of milk: The base for your smooth, creamy gravy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning touches for your gravy.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, ensuring even cooking and a nicer crispy ratio to the meat. Sprinkle both sides liberally with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, seasoning the chicken beautifully before it hits the skillet.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add your oil and butter. The combination not only allows for a perfectly golden crust but also brings an extra layer of flavor that only butter can provide. Let it melt and warm up until it’s shimmering and ready for the dredged chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
Mix together the cup of flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This will be your flavorful coating that crisps up in the skillet, giving that iconic country fried texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk together the milk and egg in a shallow bowl. This combined mixture makes the flour stick to the chicken, building that signature double-dipped crust that is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Dredge the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken first into the seasoned flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour. This triple layer ensures each piece is fully coated for maximum crunchiness and flavor.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the floured chicken pieces into the hot skillet. Fry them until they develop a golden brown crust and are fully cooked inside, about 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and let it rest while you work on the gravy.
Step 7: Make the Gravy
Using the leftover grease in your skillet, whisk in 1/3 cup of flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in the 3 cups of milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken into creamy, dreamy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook until it reaches the perfect consistency.
Step 8: Serve the Gravy Over Fried Chicken
Pour the luscious gravy over your crispy chicken pieces or serve it on the side for dipping perfection. Every bite combines crunch and creaminess in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brings a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness. Scattered cracked black pepper over the gravy just before serving adds a touch of spice and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw make the ideal companions for this dish, their mild flavors and smooth textures complementing the chicken and gravy perfectly. For a green touch, steamed green beans or sautéed corn add brightness and a crisp contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken and gravy over a fluffy biscuit or stacked on buttery toast for a Southern-inspired twist. Alternatively, make it a hearty plate by layering the chicken with a scoop of mashed potatoes underneath and draping the gravy over the top. This presentation captivates both the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe at its best, store leftover chicken and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and the gravy from thickening too much.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags, which helps maintain its crispiness upon reheating. Freeze gravy separately in a sealed container to retain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore its crisp texture without drying it out. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth and heated through. Then pour it over the chicken fresh for a meal that tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor, and they work wonderfully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to double dredge the chicken?
Yes, double dredging helps create that famous crunchy crust that holds up well against the luscious gravy. Skipping this step can result in a thinner, less crispy coating.
Can I make the gravy without chicken grease?
While chicken grease adds great flavor, you can substitute with butter or oil if you prefer. Just keep in mind the intensity of flavor may be milder.
What can I use as a gluten-free alternative for flour?
You can swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that are suitable for frying and gravy making, but be sure to check the blend’s ingredients to ensure proper thickening ability.
How long can I keep leftovers in the refrigerator?
Properly stored, cooked chicken and gravy leftovers are best eaten within 3 to 4 days to guarantee safety and optimal taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for that perfect balance of crispy, juicy fried chicken and creamy, comforting gravy, this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe is a keeper. Trust me, once you dive into these layers of flavor and texture, you’ll be making it again and again. Go ahead, treat yourself to a plate of Southern comfort that tastes like home.
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Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Country Fried Chicken with Gravy is a classic Southern dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts that are breaded, fried to a crispy golden brown, and served smothered in a creamy homemade gravy. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this recipe combines simple pantry staples with straightforward techniques to deliver hearty, flavorful results.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 2/3 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Gravy
- 1/3 cup grease reserved from frying chicken
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces for even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Heat Skillet. Place a skillet over medium heat and add the oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely to create a flavorful frying medium.
- Prepare Flour Mixture. In a bowl, combine the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This seasoned flour will coat the chicken and add depth of flavor and crispy texture.
- Prepare Egg Mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until smooth. This mixture helps the flour adhere to the chicken.
- Dredge the Chicken. Dip each seasoned piece of chicken first into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture for a double coating, ensuring a crispy crust after frying.
- Fry the Chicken. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Reserve 1/3 cup of the grease for the gravy.
- Make the Gravy. Using the reserved grease, whisk in 1/3 cup flour over medium heat to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is lightly browned. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve. Pour the creamy gravy generously over the fried chicken pieces and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting classic with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, ensure oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken is fully cooked; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- The gravy can be adjusted thicker or thinner by modifying the amount of milk added.
- Leftover chicken and gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour or gravy.
