Name: Country Fried Chicken
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Salt to taste; 2 large eggs; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons seasoned salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Vegetable oil for frying

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Country Fried Chicken is the definition of Southern comfort food. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly golden brown, this easy chicken recipe transforms simple fried chicken breast into a restaurant-quality family dinner. When you serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy pairing, you create the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table fast.

If you have ever wanted to master Country Fried Chicken at home, this recipe gives you everything you need to get it right the first time.

Story

Country Fried Chicken always reminds me why classic comfort food never goes out of style. The first time I served this chicken recipe at home, I heard, “Did you get this from a restaurant?” That moment confirmed that homemade Country Fried Chicken can absolutely rival any diner plate.

What makes Country Fried Chicken so special is its crisp, craggy crust and juicy interior. Unlike standard fried chicken breast, this version focuses on pounding the chicken thin, soaking it in buttermilk, and coating it thoroughly for maximum texture. As a result, you get even cooking and that signature Southern crunch.

Because this dish shines during a family dinner, I often pair it with mashed potatoes and a rich gravy pairing. Together, they create a full comfort food experience that feels nostalgic yet satisfying every single time.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt, to taste
2 large eggs
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Vegetable oil, enough for shallow frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about ½-inch thickness. This step keeps the Country Fried Chicken tender and ensures even cooking.

Pat the chicken completely dry. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and buttermilk. Submerge the chicken and refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before frying.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, seasoned salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge one piece of chicken at a time, pressing the flour mixture firmly into every crevice until fully coated. Bread each piece just before frying.

Cooking Instructions

Pour enough vegetable oil into a heavy skillet to cover the chicken halfway. Heat the oil to 350°F.

Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4–5 minutes per side. Once the edges turn golden brown, flip gently using a thin spatula.

Cook until the crust becomes deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and keeps the crust crisp.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not skip pounding the chicken. Thin, evenly tenderized pieces cook faster and create better texture.

Avoid breading all the chicken at once. Instead, dredge each piece right before frying to maintain a crisp coating.

Keep the oil temperature steady at 350°F. If the oil drops too low, the crust absorbs excess oil. If it rises too high, the outside browns before the inside cooks through.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Soak the chicken in buttermilk overnight for extra tenderness and flavor depth.

Press the flour mixture firmly into the chicken. This technique creates the signature Country Fried Chicken crunch.

For a classic gravy pairing, whisk pan drippings with butter, flour, and milk to make a creamy white gravy that complements the crispy chicken beautifully.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Country Fried Chicken hot over mashed potatoes with plenty of gravy pairing. Add green beans, dinner rolls, or a fresh salad to complete the family dinner. The crispy texture pairs perfectly with creamy sides, creating a balanced plate of comfort food.

How to Store Leftovers

Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Conclusion

Country Fried Chicken delivers everything you want in a classic Southern comfort food meal. With its crispy crust, tender interior, and perfect gravy pairing, this chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable family dinner. Once you master this method, you will come back to it again and again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of fried chicken breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well in Country Fried Chicken. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a minute or two longer to reach 165°F internally.

Why is buttermilk important in this chicken recipe?

Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading stick better. Its mild acidity also contributes to a crisp, flavorful crust that defines classic comfort food.

Can I make this ahead for a family dinner?

You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it briefly before frying, but for best results, fry it just before serving. Freshly cooked Country Fried Chicken always delivers the best crunch and flavor.