There’s something undeniably magical about Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crust that gives way to tender, juicy chicken, all while being smothered in rich, velvety gravy. The aroma wafting from the kitchen feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, making you almost forget about that pile of laundry you’ve been avoiding. For more inspiration, check out this hearty lunch options recipe.
Now, picture this: it’s Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house, and the whole family is gathered around the table. The clinking of forks and the laughter of loved ones fills the air as everyone eagerly awaits their first bite of this classic comfort dish. Every mouthful isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia wrapped in flavors that dance on your palate. If you’re ready to whip up some magic in your own kitchen, get excited because this recipe promises to be an unforgettable experience! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy comes together quickly, making meal prep a breeze
- Its savory flavor profile will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The golden-brown color and creamy sauce make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings but versatile enough for weeknight meals too
I remember the first time I made Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy for my friends. Their delighted expressions were priceless as they took their first bites, and I knew I had officially won the “best cook” title among them.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dredging; choose a good quality flour for optimum crispiness.
Buttermilk: Gives the chicken a tender texture and adds tangy flavor; homemade buttermilk works wonders too.
Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the flour to the chicken for that crunchy coating.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Use these to enhance flavor; feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Cooking Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable oil is best for frying; it helps create that perfect golden crust.
For the Sauce:
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for creating a rich base for your creamy gravy.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient is key for achieving that luscious creamy texture—don’t skimp on it!
Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor; opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.
Flour (for thickening): Use what you reserved from earlier; it’ll help thicken your gravy beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy
Prepare Your Chicken: Begin by marinating chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least one hour—overnight is even better! This step ensures juicy chicken and enhances flavor.
Coat the Chicken: In a shallow bowl or plate, whisk together flour and seasonings. Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off before coating each piece well with the flour mixture.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (about 350°F/175°C), add chicken pieces carefully—fry until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
Make the Gravy Base: After frying, remove chicken from skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat before adding flour—whisk constantly until bubbly and slightly browned (around 2 minutes).
Add Liquid Gold: Gradually pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until gravy thickens—this should take about 3-5 minutes depending on desired thickness.
Season to Perfection!: Taste your gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary—don’t be shy! You want every spoonful bursting with flavor.
Serve your perfectly fried chicken drizzled generously with creamy gravy over mashed potatoes or alongside biscuits for an ultimate comfort meal experience! Enjoy every delightful bite—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is a comfort food classic that can elevate any meal
- The crispy texture combined with rich, creamy gravy makes your taste buds dance
- Perfect for family gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors, then bread it thoroughly before frying. This ensures a flavorful crust and juicy meat.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice up the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper or garlic powder to the flour mix. You can also swap buttermilk for yogurt for a tangy twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect crunch, let the breaded chicken rest for at least 15 minutes before frying
- This helps the coating stick better
- For extra flavor, use homemade broth in the gravy instead of water
- Make sure your oil is hot enough; test it with a small piece of bread before frying
Sometimes, I remember cooking this dish on a rainy Sunday. My family’s laughter echoed as we gathered around the table, creating memories over delicious bites of chicken and gravy.
FAQ
What is the best oil for frying Country Fried Chicken?
Use vegetable or peanut oil as they have high smoke points and great flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a delicious variation.
What’s the secret to creamy gravy?
A roux made from butter and flour is crucial; whisk in broth gradually until smooth and creamy.
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to your table. With a crispy, golden exterior coating juicy chicken, all drenched in a rich, creamy gravy, this classic recipe evokes nostalgia and warmth. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, every bite promises an unforgettable experience filled with savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups cooking oil (for frying)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 3 tbsp reserved flour (from dredging)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least one hour (overnight is best).
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off before dredging in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F/175°C). Fry chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For the gravy, melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in reserved flour until bubbly and slightly browned (about 2 minutes).
- Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Season gravy to taste with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with gravy (150g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
