If you’re craving a dish that’s truly the heart and soul of comfort food, this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe is going to become your newfound favorite. Crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful, crunchy breading and then smothered in a creamy, homemade gravy that’s rich with savory goodness. Every bite delivers a nostalgic taste of Southern hospitality that fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to the table for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe brings incredible flavor and satisfying textures that just can’t be beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Each item plays an essential role: from tender chicken to the fragrant spices in the breading, and the luscious gravy that wraps it all up in a velvety hug. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe unforgettable.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Butterflied for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for chicken seasoning): The classic trio that boosts the flavor in the chicken itself.
- ⅔ cup vegetable oil: Provides the perfect frying medium for that golden crispy crust.
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness and depth, used in both frying and gravy making.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading): The crispy outer layer that makes this chicken irresistible.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall flavor balance in both the breading and gravy.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: For that essential gentle heat throughout the dish.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet twist that deepens the color and taste.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings savory notes without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning: A blend of spices adding complexity to the crust.
- 1 cup milk: Used in the egg wash batter for tender, moist chicken inside.
- 1 large egg: Binds the breading and keeps it clinging beautifully to the chicken.
- ⅓ cup reserved frying oil: The flavorful base for the roux in the creamy gravy.
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (for gravy): Thickens the gravy to that perfect, pourable consistency.
- 3 cups milk (for gravy): Creates the luscious texture of the country-style gravy.
- Salt and pepper (for gravy): To taste — the finishing seasoning that brightens the sauce.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by butterflying the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces. This step ensures faster, even cooking and a tender bite every time. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This initial seasoning layers flavor right at the core.
Step 2: Make the Breading and Batter
In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of flour with a careful blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This flavorful flour mixture is crucial for that irresistible crust. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk with 1 large egg to create the wet batter that helps the breading stick perfectly to the chicken.
Step 3: Bread and Fry the Chicken
Now comes the fun part! Dredge each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the milk and egg bath, and finally back into the flour mixture for a thick, crunchy coating. Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until it reaches a glorious golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to keep it crisp yet not greasy.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
After frying, pour off all but ⅓ cup of the residual oil from your skillet—the very essence of flavor! Add ⅓ cup flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to build a roux. Slowly whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring until the gravy thickens to that silky, creamy perfection. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure the gravy complements the chicken spectacularly.
Step 5: Serve
Plate your crunchy chicken and generously ladle that dreamy gravy on top. This is the moment where everything comes together — golden, crispy chicken snugly nestled under a blanket of creamy, seasoned gravy. Pure happiness on a plate!
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add freshness, try garnishing the dish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. The vibrant green contrasts beautifully against the warm colors and adds a hint of brightness that wakes up the flavors. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top also adds visual appeal and a little kick right before serving.
Side Dishes
This country-style classic pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or creamy coleslaw. The potatoes are perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy, while crisp vegetables cut through the richness and make the meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, serve the chicken and gravy atop warm buttermilk biscuits or a bed of steamed rice. You can even turn it into a hearty open-faced sandwich and top with some pickles or sautéed greens for an extra layer of flavor and texture. It’s a versatile dish that invites variety while keeping that beloved country charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep the chicken crispy longer and prevent the gravy from thickening too much. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and quality.
Freezing
You can freeze both components, but it’s best to wrap the fried chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap first to avoid freezer burn. Freeze the gravy in a separate container. Frozen properly, they’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready to warm up for a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven to help regain its crispiness. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking occasionally to restore its smooth texture. Avoid microwaving crispy chicken directly, as it often turns soggy fast.
FAQs
Can I use dark meat instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Dark meat like thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through depending on their thickness.
Is there a way to make the gravy gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour in the gravy with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry. Just whisk cornstarch with a little cold milk before adding to the roux to avoid lumps.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can bread and fry the chicken ahead and keep it warm in the oven. Prepare the gravy just before serving for fresh flavor and texture. This makes it easier to serve guests without last-minute stress.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil for frying?
Light oils with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or sunflower oil work great as alternatives. They yield the same crispy results without imparting strong flavors.
How thick should I butterfly the chicken breasts?
Aim for chicken pieces about ½ inch thick. This thickness cooks quickly and evenly while staying tender inside without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a heartwarming experience that brings joy to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or digging in solo, the crispy crust paired with that velvety gravy hits all the right notes for comfort and flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own little slice of home.
Print
Country Fried Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Country Fried Chicken and Gravy recipe delivers classic Southern comfort food with crispy, golden chicken breasts fried to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy homemade gravy. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it combines seasoned breading and a luscious milk-based gravy for a satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- ⅔ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Gravy
- ⅓ cup reserved frying oil (from cooking chicken)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Make Breading and Batter: In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons each of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and the large egg until fully blended.
- Bread and Fry Chicken: Dredge the chicken breasts first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip them into the milk and egg batter, and finally coat them again with the flour mixture. Heat ⅔ cup vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Gravy: Remove all but ⅓ cup of the residual frying oil from the skillet. Add ⅓ cup flour to the oil to create a roux, cooking and stirring constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Place the fried chicken on plates and generously pour the creamy gravy over the top. Serve immediately for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Butterflying the chicken allows for even cooking and a crispier exterior.
- Maintain medium-high heat while frying to avoid soggy breading.
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Reserve some frying oil for making the gravy to retain flavor.
- The gravy thickens as it cools; adjust milk quantity if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
