Classic Country Fried Chicken

Classic Country Fried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner—just add some mashed potatoes and gravy, and you’re all set!

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Country Fried Chicken

Prep Time: 25

Cook Time: 38

Total Time: 1 5

Servings:

Calories: 349kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Buttermilk Marinade:

2 cups buttermilk]
2 large eggs, whisked
3 tsp salt

Crispy Breading:

1 ½ cups xall-purpose flour
½ cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs
2 ½ tsp seasoned salt
¾ tsp paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (for a little kick!)
1 ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Lay each chicken breast between plastic wrap and gently pound it to about ½ inch thick using a meat tenderizer. (No hammering needed—just a few firm taps!)
Pat the chicken completely dry.
In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and salt. Submerge the chicken in this mixture and let it soak for at least 1-2 hours (overnight is even better for ultra-tender chicken).
Before frying, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 25-30 minutes.

Step 2: Bread & Fry

Combine the flour, breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper in a large dish.
Take each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Coat it thoroughly in the breading, pressing firmly to get all those crispy bits to stick. (Tip: Don’t coat all the chicken at once—do it right before frying!)
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast iron skillet (if you have one—it's best for even heat) to 350°F.
Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side. When the edges start browning, flip it gently using a thin spatula.
Once golden and crispy on both sides, transfer the chicken to a wire rack so any extra oil drips away. This keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
Repeat with the remaining chicken, then serve hot with all your favorite Southern sides!

Notes

What to Serve It With

Pair this crispy delight with:
🥔 Creamy Mashed Potatoes
🍗 Homemade Chicken Gravy or Brown Gravy
🥕 Roasted Carrots
🍞 Buttermilk Biscuits
🌽 Corn Casserole or Green Bean Casserole

Buttermilk Substitutes (Easy Fix! 🥛)

No buttermilk? No problem! Try one of these:

½ cup milk + 1 ½ cups sour cream
4 tbsp milk + enough plain yogurt to make 2 cups
2 tbsp white vinegar + enough milk to make 2 cups (let sit for 5-10 min)
2 tbsp lemon juice + enough milk to make 2 cups (let sit for 10 min, then stir!)

Nutrition

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