Name: Country Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 large eggs, whisked; 3 teaspoons salt (divided, some for marinade, some for seasoning); 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian); 2 ½ teaspoons seasoned salt; ¾ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper; 1 ½ cups vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving that crispy, flavorful delight that reminds you of cozy Sunday dinners and family gatherings, this Country Fried Chicken Recipe is just what you need. It’s a warm embrace on a plate, where juicy, tender chicken meets a perfectly seasoned, golden crust. The magic comes from marinating the chicken in buttermilk and eggs, then coating it in a flavorful blend of flour and breadcrumbs seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at homemade comfort food, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and straightforward steps that create a show-stopping dish everyone will rave about.

A white plate holds a meal with three main layers. At the bottom is a thick, soft layer of mashed potatoes, white with slight green herb bits mixed in. Above the potatoes sit two pieces of golden brown crispy fried chicken, one piece larger and topped with smooth, shiny light brown gravy that slightly drapes over the edges. The second piece of fried chicken is partially cut, showing juicy white meat inside. To the side, bright green beans add a fresh pop of color. The setup sits on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Country Fried Chicken Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build flavor, texture, and that irresistibly crispy crust. From the tenderizing qualities of buttermilk to the aromatic spices that provide a subtle kick, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy frying and perfect texture.
Vegetable oil: Ideal for frying to achieve a golden, crispy finish without overpowering flavors.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds tangy depth to the marinade.
Eggs: Help bind the marinade and keep the breading in place.
Salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the breading.
All-purpose flour: Forms the crispy foundation of the coating.
Breadcrumbs: Plain or Italian for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
Seasoned salt: Adds a blend of spices that elevate every bite.
Paprika: Contributes color and a mild smoky flavor.
Cayenne pepper: Just the right amount for a gentle heat punch.
Black pepper: Balances and complements all other spices.

How to Make Country Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by covering each chicken breast with plastic wrap or saran wrap and gently pound them to about half an inch thick. This tenderizes the meat and ensures even cooking. It’s one of those little prep steps that make a big difference in the end result.

Step 2: Marinate to Tenderize

Pat the chicken completely dry and prepare the marinade by whisking together the eggs, salt, and buttermilk. Immerse the chicken breasts in this mixture and let them soak for at least 1-2 hours — or overnight if you have the time. The buttermilk not only tenderizes but also adds a subtle tang that shines through when fried.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

Before frying, let the chicken sit out at room temperature for about 25-30 minutes. This crucial step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the coating adheres perfectly when you begin the breading process.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Prepare your breading mix by combining the flour, breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper. Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the breading, flipping to cover every nook and cranny completely. Don’t bread all the chicken at once—do it piece by piece right before frying for the best crust.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat enough vegetable oil in a skillet (preferably cast iron) so it comes halfway up the chicken breast. Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully place the chicken in the skillet and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. Flip gently with a thin spatula to keep the crust intact.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

After frying, transfer the chicken to a wire cooling rack to let the excess oil drip away. This is a small but important step to keep the crust crisp and avoid sogginess. Repeat the frying process with the remaining pieces and get ready to serve your masterpiece.

How to Serve Country Fried Chicken Recipe

Country Fried Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Keep it simple with fresh parsley or chives sprinkled over the chicken for a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a fresh, zesty contrast that complements the rich, savory flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes smothered in creamy chicken or brown gravy are the perfect companion to this Country Fried Chicken Recipe. Cornbread and a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pair beautifully, balancing indulgence with freshness. For a Southern touch, serve alongside collard greens or fried green tomatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try serving the chicken on a soft sandwich bun with pickles, lettuce, and your favorite sauce for a mouthwatering fried chicken sandwich. You can also cube leftovers to toss on top of salads or next to roasted vegetables for a hearty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping the air out helps maintain the chicken’s moisture without compromising the crispiness too much.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Country Fried Chicken Recipe pieces by wrapping them individually in foil or parchment paper and placing them in a freezer bag. This works well if you want to enjoy your chicken at a later time, preserving flavor and juiciness for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To bring back that beautiful crisp, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crunch and avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the frying time since thighs are usually thicker than breasts.

What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I substitute it?

Yes! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of milk, letting it sit for about 5 minutes before using. This mimics the acidity and helps tenderize the chicken just as well.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

Not necessary, but highly recommended for the best tenderness and flavor. Even marinating for 1-2 hours will give you great results if you’re short on time.

Can I bake instead of frying?

While frying gives that iconic crust and flavor, you can bake this chicken at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Coat the baking sheet with oil and flip halfway through. The crust won’t be quite as crispy, but it’s a lighter alternative.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

The key is to pat the chicken dry before marinating, let the coating adhere evenly by pressing the breading into the meat, and avoid breading all pieces too far in advance. Also, fry pieces one at a time for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Country Fried Chicken Recipe is a tribute to comfort food done right. It’s approachable, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite or the star of your next gathering. Take your time with each step, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that tastes like it came from a Southern kitchen, full of love and tradition. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!