If you are looking for the best fried chicken recipes to make at home, this one is pure comfort. This Homemade Country Fried Chicken is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and covered in creamy gravy that ties everything together. It reminds me of the kind of meal my mom used to make on Sunday nights when the whole house smelled like golden fried goodness. The best part is, you do not need any fancy tools or ingredients, just simple pantry staples and about 30 minutes to create a warm, hearty dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless cuts work best for even frying.
- Flour: Creates that perfect crispy crust.
- Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a lovely tang.
- Eggs: Help the coating stick.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for classic flavor.
- Oil for frying: Use vegetable or canola oil for the best crisp texture.
- Gravy ingredients: Butter, flour, milk, and a pinch of black pepper make the creamiest sauce.
Step by Step Instructions
- Start by pounding the chicken lightly to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, mix flour with paprika and garlic powder. In another, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
- Dip each chicken piece into the flour, then into the buttermilk mixture, then back into the flour for a double coating.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Keep warm while you make the gravy.
- For the gravy, melt butter in the same skillet, stir in flour, and whisk until golden. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
- Pour the creamy gravy over your fried chicken and serve right away.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Use seasoned flour for extra flavor in your Country Fried Chicken Dinner.
- For a quicker version, try a Quick One-pan Chicken Fried Steak style method.
- Make it a Fried Chicken and Gravy Dinner by serving with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
- Want something different? Turn leftovers into a sandwich with a drizzle of gravy for a comforting lunch.
Serving and Storage
Serve this homemade country fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, a spoonful of gravy, and maybe a side of coleslaw. It is a true comfort meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes to keep the coating crisp and the inside juicy.
Homemade Country Fried Chicken
Equipment
- Deep Skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Tongs
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs boneless, pounded to even thickness
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 eggs whisked
- 1 cup buttermilk
- salt and pepper to taste
- vegetable or canola oil for frying
Gravy
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pound chicken to even thickness and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix flour with paprika and garlic powder in one bowl. In another, whisk buttermilk and eggs.
- Coat chicken: flour → buttermilk mixture → flour again for double coating.
- Heat oil in deep skillet over medium. Fry chicken 6–8 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove chicken and drain on paper towels. Keep warm.
- To make gravy: melt butter in skillet, stir in flour, cook until golden. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thick. Season with black pepper.
- Serve fried chicken hot with gravy poured on top.
Notes
FAQs
How do I keep the coating from falling off the chicken?
Make sure the chicken is dry before dipping and give it a few minutes to rest after coating so the crust sets. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the coating to loosen as the oil cools down. A steady medium heat works best for an even fry.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully in this simple chicken fried steak recipe. They stay juicy even after frying and have a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy gravy and mashed potatoes. Just adjust your cook time slightly since thighs may take a minute or two longer.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil. These oils keep your fried chicken crisp without adding extra flavor. Avoid olive oil or butter since they can burn quickly at frying temperatures.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy feels too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes while whisking. You can also add a small spoonful of flour mixed with water to thicken it quickly. The gravy should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready to pour.
Can I air fry this recipe?
Yes, you can make a lighter version by air frying. Spray the coated chicken with oil and cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You will still get a crisp crust without deep frying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts from Ama
Some recipes, like this fried chicken and mashed potatoes dinner, feel like home no matter where you are. It’s simple, golden, and full of comfort. Even if the crust is not perfect, I promise it will still taste wonderful. Around my table, there is always room for a little mess and a lot of love. So grab your skillet, turn up your favorite song, and let this cozy meal bring everyone a little closer tonight.
