Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine biting into crispy, golden chicken that’s perfectly seasoned, followed by a rich, velvety gravy that dances across your taste buds. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or when you need a little extra love on your plate.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where the smell of fried chicken would waft through the air every Sunday. It was the kind of aroma that could make even the grumpiest cat perk up and drool. Gathering around the table with family, laughter filling the room, made every bite even more delicious. Trust me when I say this dish will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring back those heartwarming memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The flavor profile melds savory spices with creamy richness that will have you coming back for seconds.
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and smooth gravy, it’s a feast for the eyes too.
- This dish is versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or cozy nights in with a loved one.
Ingredients for Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for creating that crunchy coating that makes every bite delightful.
Buttermilk: It tenderizes the chicken and adds a slight tang that elevates the flavor.
Eggs: They help bind the flour to the chicken, ensuring that glorious crust sticks.
Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for frying; it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
For the Gravy:
Chicken Broth: Go for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your gravy.
Heavy Cream: This gives the gravy its luscious texture and rich flavor—because who doesn’t love some decadence?
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by marinating those chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least an hour (or overnight if you’re feeling fancy). This not only tenderizes but also infuses flavor into every juicy bite.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and whatever spices tickle your fancy—paprika or garlic powder work wonders here! In another bowl, beat your eggs until they’re frothy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each marinated chicken breast out of the buttermilk and let any excess drip off before dipping it first in the egg mixture and then coating thoroughly with flour. Place them on a plate while you heat up the oil.
Step 4: Fry Away
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in enough cooking oil to cover about half an inch of the bottom. Once hot (you can test by dropping a little flour in—if it sizzles, it’s ready), fry each coated chicken breast for about 5-7 minutes per side until gloriously golden brown.
Step 5: Make That Gravy
Once all your chicken is fried to perfection and resting on paper towels to catch any excess oil (because we’re adults and we care about such things), drain most of the oil from your skillet while keeping those lovely brown bits left behind. Add some flour into the pan drippings over medium heat and stir until it’s bubbly before slowly adding chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your crispy fried chicken onto plates and lavishly drizzle that creamy gravy all over it! For an extra touch of class (and because we want our food Instagram-ready), garnish with chopped parsley.
And there you have it! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Prepare yourself for compliments and satisfied smiles all around as everyone digs into their plates of happiness!
You Must Know
- This Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
- Crispy on the outside and juicy within, this dish evokes comfort and joy.
- The creamy gravy adds an irresistible richness, making your taste buds dance in delight.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. While it’s soaking up goodness, prepare your breading station. Sear the chicken to golden perfection before finishing it in the oven. Whisk together the creamy gravy while the chicken cooks for a seamless dinner experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap buttermilk with yogurt for tanginess or add spices like paprika for a kick! Optional add-ins like chopped fresh herbs can elevate your gravy. Don’t hesitate to mix in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. For the gravy, gently reheat on low heat, stirring frequently.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispness.
- Always let fried chicken rest after cooking; it helps retain moisture and flavor.
Sometimes I think back to that family gathering when I made this Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy. The smiles around the table told me I’d nailed it, making my culinary heart soar!
FAQs:
What is Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy?
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is a beloved Southern dish consisting of breaded and fried chicken served with a rich, creamy gravy. This dish is known for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken. The gravy typically includes pan drippings, flour, milk, and seasonings, creating a comforting sauce that pairs perfectly with the fried chicken. It’s often served alongside traditional sides like mashed potatoes or biscuits, making it a hearty meal enjoyed by many.
How can I make Country Fried Chicken extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy Country Fried Chicken, ensure you double-dip the chicken in the egg wash and seasoned flour. After coating each piece, let it rest for a few minutes before frying; this step helps the coating adhere better. Additionally, using buttermilk to marinate the chicken overnight enhances moisture and tenderness while contributing to a crispier finish when fried. Frying at the right temperature is crucial—maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.
Can I make Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components of Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance. Fry the chicken shortly before serving for the best texture. The creamy gravy can also be made ahead; just reheat it gently before serving. It’s essential to store everything properly in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What are some great side dishes to serve with Country Fried Chicken?
Country Fried Chicken pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Traditional options include creamy mashed potatoes topped with additional gravy, collard greens sautéed with garlic, or buttery cornbread for added richness. Coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that balances the meal, while a fresh garden salad adds brightness. Each of these sides enhances your dining experience by adding textures and flavors that work beautifully together.
Conclusion for Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy:
In summary, Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is an iconic dish celebrated for its deliciously crispy chicken and rich sauce. By following key tips such as marinating in buttermilk and double-dipping for crispiness, you can elevate your cooking results. Pairing this dish with classic sides will create a comforting meal your family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises satisfaction and flavor in every bite.
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Featuring crispy, golden chicken enveloped in a rich, velvety gravy, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Indulge in this easy-to-follow recipe that brings classic Southern flavors to your table, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Set up a breading station: whisk together flour, salt, and pepper in one bowl; beat eggs in another.
- Coat each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- For the gravy, drain oil from the skillet, leaving drippings. Add flour to drippings and stir over medium heat until bubbly. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking until smooth.
- Serve fried chicken topped with creamy gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken in egg and flour. - Add spices like paprika or garlic powder for more flavor. - Substitute buttermilk with yogurt if desired; consider adding fresh herbs or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the gravy.
