Country Fried Chicken with Gravy Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a big warm hug, Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is for you! Every crispy, golden bite of juicy chicken, smothered in creamy homemade gravy, is pure Southern bliss—easy enough for a cozy weeknight, yet special enough for Sunday supper.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the short ingredient list—every item here truly matters for flavor, crunch, and that signature creamy gravy. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each one is worth it!

• Chicken Breast: Slicing them thin means quick, even cooking and maximum juiciness.
• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: These basic seasonings go directly on the chicken to infuse every bite with flavor.
• Oil & Butter: A combination that creates the ideal fry—crispy edges from oil, rich flavor from butter.
• Flour: Essential for both the breading and the gravy’s silky body.
• Paprika & Steak Seasoning: These spices bring savory depth and just a hint of smokiness to the crust.
• Milk & Egg: Whisked together, they help the crunchy coating stick and make it extra tender.
• Frying Grease: The flavorful base for your homemade gravy. Save the good stuff left in the pan!

Variations

What I adore about Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is how easy it is to make your own. Switch up the recipe for any mood, craving, or dietary need—it’s as flexible as it is delicious!

• Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the breading for fiery Southern heat.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend for both the coating and gravy—nobody will know the difference.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free butter for creamy results without the milk.
• Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Try boneless thighs—they stay extra juicy and flavorful after frying.

How to Make Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by splitting your chicken breasts in half, lengthwise—think thin cutlets that cook quickly and stay moist. Generously season each piece on both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. This simple step is the key to building flavor into every bite from the inside out.

Step 2: Get the Pan Hot

Pour oil and a tablespoon of butter into your largest skillet. Set it over medium heat and let everything get good and hot. You’ll hear a gentle sizzle if you drop in a pinch of flour— that’s your cue it’s time to fry!

Step 3: Dredge for Crunch

In one bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. In a separate dish, blend the milk and egg. Coat each piece of chicken with the flour mixture, dunk it in the milk-egg bath, then coat it again in flour for an ultra-crispy shell. Gently shake off any excess before frying.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Lay the chicken pieces in the hot fat, giving them plenty of space. Fry for several minutes per side, turning when you see rich golden color. Use a meat thermometer—165°F means they’re perfectly cooked and irresistibly juicy! Set the crispy chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 5: Whip Up the Gravy

Carefully pour out all but about 1/3 cup of the frying oil from your skillet. Stir in 1/3 cup of flour and cook for a minute to make a smooth roux—this creates that wonderful, toasty undertone in the gravy. Slowly whisk in 3 cups of milk, scraping up any golden bits from the pan. Simmer, stirring often, until your gravy is creamy, thick, and dreamy. Add salt and pepper to your taste.

How to Serve Country Fried Chicken and Gravy

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives wakes up the plate with a burst of green, while cracked black pepper on top of the gravy makes every bite pop. For that classic homestyle look, add an extra pinch of paprika right before serving.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats serving Country Fried Chicken and Gravy alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, or steamy green beans. Biscuits to mop up the extra gravy are non-negotiable at my table—don’t forget to invite them!

Creative Ways to Present

For fun, stack crispy chicken atop a bed of mashed potatoes and drizzle generously with gravy for a farm-style “open-faced sandwich.” Or serve everything family-style in the center of the table, letting everyone dig in and pour their own gravy magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Country Fried Chicken and Gravy completely, then store chicken and gravy separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your breading from getting soggy and your gravy fresh.

Freezing

Fried chicken freezes well! Wrap cooled pieces tightly and freeze for up to a month. Gravy is best made fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in a pinch—just whisk well after reheating to restore creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a hot oven (about 375°F) on a rack or baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, which brings back the crunch. Warm gravy gently on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of milk to loosen if needed. Pour over hot chicken and enjoy!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Give this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy a try—you’ll fall in love with the crispy edges, the savory gravy, and the pure comfort packed into every bite. It’s one of those recipes you’ll turn to whenever you want a homemade meal that feels like home. Enjoy every bite!

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