If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Crispy, golden chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned crust is topped with silky, dreamy gravy that’s just the right balance of rich and flavorful. Every bite brings together a symphony of textures and tastes that make this dish a true Southern classic—ideal for family dinners or when you want to impress without fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that unmistakable home-cooked appeal. From the tender chicken breasts to the blend of seasoning-packed flour and the creamy, luscious gravy, everything works together beautifully.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose fresh, good quality chicken for moist and tender results.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for chicken): Basic seasonings that enhance natural chicken flavors.
- 2/3 cup of oil: For frying the chicken to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
- 2 TBSP of butter: Adds richness and flavor when frying and making the gravy.
- 1 cup of flour: The base for your crispy coating and a key thickening agent for the gravy.
- 2 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning: A perfectly balanced seasoning mix that elevates every bite.
- 1 cup of milk: Helps bind the chicken dredge and adds creaminess to the gravy.
- 1 egg: Works as a binder to keep the coating in place while frying.
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken: Adds deep flavor to your gravy.
- 1/3 cup of flour (for gravy): Thickens the gravies into the perfect consistency.
- 3 cups of milk: Used to achieve that smooth, creamy texture in the gravy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise for even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning is crucial because it directly flavors the chicken meat before it’s coated.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil along with the butter. This combination not only helps achieve that perfect golden crust but also infuses a subtle buttery richness that you’ll taste in every bite.
Step 3: Season the Flour
In a bowl, combine the cup of flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This seasoned flour is the secret to a flavorful, crispy coating that isn’t just plain flour — it’s bursting with spices!
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Set up a station with the seasoned flour, a mixture of milk and egg, and then flour again. Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour to coat, then the milk-egg wash to moisten, and once more into the flour for a double-layered crust that fries up extra crispy.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Place the coated chicken in the hot skillet and fry on each side until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. The sizzle you hear is the promise of the crunchy texture you’re about to enjoy.
Step 6: Make Your Creamy Gravy
Remove the chicken and reserve about 1/3 cup of the grease left in the pan. Add that grease back to the skillet and whisk in 1/3 cup of flour to form a roux. Gradually stir in 3 cups of milk, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until the gravy thickens into a silky smooth sauce.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Pour your luscious creamy gravy over the hot, crispy chicken and get ready to dive into some true comfort food heaven.
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich gravy. Sprinkle them right before serving for the most vibrant presentation.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes are a no-brainer here — their creamy texture complements the gravy perfectly. You can also serve this with buttery green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp, tangy coleslaw to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and gravy over creamy cheddar grits or on a warm biscuit instead of the usual potatoes. Layering adds a different texture and elevates the dish to something special for weekend brunch or dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fried chicken and gravy in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The coating will soften, but you can easily re-crisp it when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken pieces without the gravy for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Freeze the gravy separately in a sturdy container or freezer bags.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back some of the crispiness. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring often until hot and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat, which makes them juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. They handle the heat well and give you that perfect crispy crust without burning.
Can I make the creamy gravy gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour in the gravy with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I get the coating extra crispy?
Double-dredging the chicken (flour, egg wash, flour again) and frying in hot oil are key steps. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which cools the oil and leads to soggy crusts.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The chicken and gravy reheat well, making it a delicious make-ahead option for busy weeks. Just store them separately until ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is pure comfort food magic. It’s straightforward to make, utterly satisfying, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking to try something classic and delicious, this recipe has got your back. So go on, treat yourself and your loved ones to this golden, crispy, creamy delight—you won’t regret a single bite!
Print
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Country Fried Chicken with creamy homemade gravy delivers a crispy, golden crust seasoned to perfection, paired with a rich, flavorful white gravy. Perfect for a comforting Southern-style dinner that serves the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for seasoning chicken)
- 2/3 cup of oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup of flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
Batter
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 egg
Gravy
- 1/3 cup grease from frying chicken
- 1/3 cup flour
- 3 cups of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces for even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt and the oil to heat, creating the perfect frying medium for the chicken.
- Mix the Breading: In a bowl, combine the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This mixture will create a flavorful crunchy crust for the chicken.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: Beat together the milk and egg in a separate bowl. This liquid coating helps the seasoned flour adhere to the chicken for an extra crispy texture.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat again with the flour mixture. This double dredging ensures a thick, crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot skillet. Fry until golden brown on each side and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Make the Gravy: After frying, remove the chicken and keep the grease in the skillet. Add 1/3 cup of flour to the grease to create a roux, stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the fried chicken and generously ladle the creamy gravy over the top. Serve hot for a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- Be sure to maintain medium heat when frying to avoid burning the breading while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra crispiness, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating set.
- Save some gravy for leftovers – it reheats well and is great over mashed potatoes or biscuits.
