If you’ve ever yearned for a dish that wraps you in the warm embrace of classic Southern comfort, then this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy, golden chicken smothered in a creamy, savory gravy is a combination that simply can’t be beat. It’s a perfect balance of crispy texture and rich flavor that feels like a big cozy hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe delivers a guaranteed crowd-pleaser worthy of many happy memories around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe lies in its straightforward and humble ingredients. Each component plays an essential role: the seasonings boost flavor, the flour creates that irresistible crust, and the milk-based gravy adds luscious silkiness and depth. Together, they transform simple pantry staples into something absolutely unforgettable.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose fresh, boneless breasts and slice them thin for quick, even cooking and crispy edges.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for chicken): These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavor of the chicken and add a subtle kick.
- 2/3 cup of oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying without burning.
- 2 TBSP of butter: Adds richness to the frying process and helps with crispiness.
- 1 cup of flour: The foundation for the crunchy outer coating on your chicken.
- 2 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning: A flavorful mix that creates a perfectly seasoned crust.
- 1 cup of milk: Used in the egg wash to tenderize and help the coating stick beautifully.
- 1 egg: Binds the flour and spices to the chicken, ensuring every bite is crispy and cohesive.
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken: The secret base for the homemade gravy with authentic flavor.
- 1/3 cup of flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 3 cups of milk: Creates the creamy body of the gravy, balancing richness and smoothness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning to adjust the gravy to your preference.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner portions that cook quickly and evenly. This technique ensures each piece gets that coveted crispy crust without risking dry meat inside. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder—these simple spices do wonders enhancing the natural flavors of your chicken.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place your skillet over medium heat and add the oil along with butter. This combination not only reaches a perfect frying temperature but also imparts a subtle richness that’s crucial for that golden crust everyone loves. Make sure the butter is melted but not browned before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This seasoned flour is essential for creating a flavorful, crispy coating that embraces the chicken perfectly. Mixing the spices into the flour rather than just sprinkling on the chicken ensures even coverage and deeper taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk the milk and egg in another bowl to form the classic batter base. This mixture helps the seasoned flour stick to the chicken, making each bite wonderfully crispy and light, not heavy or greasy. Dredge the chicken pieces first into the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat in flour again for a double crust that builds incredible texture.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side depending on thickness. The key here is patience, allowing the chicken to develop a perfect crunchy shell while locking in juicy tenderness inside.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
Using the leftover grease from frying, whisk in flour to form a roux—the base of our luscious gravy. Slowly add milk while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Keep cooking on medium heat until the gravy thickens beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This homemade gravy is the soulful finishing touch that elevates the entire dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is fried and the gravy is silky and thick, pour gravy generously over the chicken or serve on the side. Every bite coated in that creamy goodness takes this dish from satisfying to absolutely divine.
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your plate with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of bright color and subtle freshness. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top of the gravy adds a little extra depth and makes the dish look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings for Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe include buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy, crisp green beans, or a simple coleslaw to cut through the richness. Cornbread or flaky biscuits are also fantastic sidekicks, perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and gravy over a bed of creamy grits or even as a hearty sandwich with pickles and slaw inside a soft bun. You can also plate it family-style on a large platter for sharing or stack pieces for a tall, impressive presentation that gets all eyes on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and gravy separate if possible to preserve the crispy coating on the chicken, reheating them together just before serving.
Freezing
If you’d like to enjoy this delicious meal later, freeze the cooked chicken separately in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Gravy can be frozen in a sealed container as well. Both will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chicken in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to revive crispness. Warm the gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent sogginess or curdling of the gravy.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts offer a lean and uniform option, thighs or drumsticks can add extra flavor and juiciness. Just adjust cooking time to ensure thicker cuts are fully cooked and crisped evenly.
What can I substitute for steak seasoning?
If you don’t have steak seasoning on hand, a mixture of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne pepper works beautifully to replicate the bold, savory profile.
Is it okay to use whole milk or should I use low-fat milk for the gravy?
Whole milk is ideal for creating a creamy, rich gravy, but low-fat milk will work in a pinch—just expect a slightly thinner texture. You can add a touch more flour to thicken if needed.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry it later?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for up to a few hours before frying. This can help save time on busy days, but frying fresh will always give the best texture.
How do I ensure the gravy doesn’t become lumpy?
Whisk the roux and milk slowly and steadily while cooking to prevent lumps. Using warm milk can also help it incorporate more smoothly. If lumps appear, a quick strain or blend can fix the texture easily.
Final Thoughts
This Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe is pure comfort food at its finest, mixing crispy, flavor-packed chicken with a velvety, homemade gravy that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and destined to become a beloved classic on your dinner table. So roll up your sleeves, get frying, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Print
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
This classic Country Fried Chicken with Gravy recipe features tender, seasoned chicken breasts coated in a crispy, flavorful breading and fried to golden perfection. Served with a creamy homemade country gravy, this comforting Southern dish is perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (to taste, for seasoning chicken)
- 2/3 cup oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
Flour Mixture
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp steak seasoning
Egg Mixture
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
Gravy
- 1/3 cup grease from frying chicken
- 1/3 cup flour
- 3 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until fully blended to create the egg wash.
- Dredge Chicken: Coat each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally dredge again in the flour mixture. Ensure chicken is evenly coated for a crispy crust.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot skillet. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through internally (juices run clear, internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Make the Gravy: Remove the fried chicken and set aside, reserving about 1/3 cup of the grease in the skillet. Add 1/3 cup flour to the grease to make a roux, stirring constantly over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens to desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Pour the creamy country gravy over the fried chicken and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, allow the oil to reach the correct temperature before frying (about 350°F/175°C).
- If the gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a little more milk to thin it out.
- Steak seasoning can be substituted with your favorite all-purpose seasoning mix.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even frying heat.
