Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is one of the most beloved dishes in Southern cuisine. Known for its crispy golden coating, juicy chicken, and rich, creamy gravy, this meal embodies comfort in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy. The combination of seasoned chicken fried to perfection, paired with a velvety gravy made from the same skillet, creates a comforting and indulgent experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the entire process of preparing Country Fried Chicken and Gravy, from the ingredients and directions to helpful tips and nutritional benefits. You’ll also find answers to common questions and additional information to help you make this dish at home with ease.

Ingredients for Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: How to Make Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oil:
   
   Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet to fry the chicken. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   
   In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
3. Egg and Buttermilk Dip:
   
   In another dish, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until fully combined. This mixture will help the flour coating adhere to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
   
   Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Then dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly. This will create the signature crispy layer on the chicken when fried.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

5. Fry the Chicken:
   
   Place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to flip the chicken carefully.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
   
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Keep the chicken warm while you prepare the gravy.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

7. Prepare the Gravy Base:
   
   In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the flour is golden brown. This creates the roux for the gravy.
8. Add the Liquids:
   
   Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then add the heavy cream and continue stirring until the gravy thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
9. Season the Gravy:
   
   Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
10. Serve the Chicken:
    
    Place the fried chicken breasts on serving plates and pour the creamy gravy over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or green beans. Whether served for a family meal or as part of a special dinner, the combination of crunchy chicken and creamy gravy will surely be a hit.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Each serving of this meal is packed with flavor and perfect for feeding the whole family. The quick prep and relatively short cooking time make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.

Nutritional Information: Calories per Serving

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-600 kcal (depending on portion size and exact ingredients used)

This nutritional estimate includes both the fried chicken and the gravy. The dish is rich in protein from the chicken and provides a satisfying amount of calories, making it a filling and comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

1. Use Fresh Chicken Breasts:
   
   For the best flavor and texture, use fresh chicken breasts. If you need to thaw frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed before frying to ensure even cooking.
2. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk:
   
   Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, creating a juicier and more flavorful result. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Test Oil Temperature:
   
   Before frying the chicken, it’s important that the oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become soggy. A simple way to check the temperature is by dropping a small amount of flour into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
4. Keep the Chicken Warm:
   
   After frying, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. You can also keep the chicken warm by covering it with foil and placing it in a low-heat oven (around 200°F/93°C) until ready to serve.
5. Customize the Gravy:
   
   If you prefer a spicier gravy, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for additional flavor.

Benefits of Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

1. Rich in Protein:
   
   The chicken breasts provide a high source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Protein is also great for maintaining a healthy metabolism.
2. Comforting and Satisfying:
   
   This dish is perfect for providing comfort, making it ideal for a cozy family meal. The crispy fried chicken combined with creamy gravy is sure to satisfy your cravings.
3. Versatile Meal:
   
   You can easily modify this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy recipe to suit your preferences. For example, you can swap the chicken for other meats like turkey or chicken thighs, or you can adjust the seasonings to create a unique flavor profile.
4. Budget-Friendly:
   
   This meal is relatively affordable, as chicken breasts are often reasonably priced, and the ingredients for the gravy are simple pantry staples. It’s a great option for families on a budget.

Conclusion

Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is a timeless Southern classic that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to your table. With its crispy fried chicken, rich gravy, and hearty sides, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create this dish at home with ease, whether you’re cooking for your family or a special occasion.

This Country Fried Chicken and Gravy recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to produce an unforgettable meal that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Enjoy this dish with loved ones and savor the comforting flavors that make it a true culinary treasure.

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