When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the crispy, golden perfection of country fried chicken. This iconic Southern dish has become a staple at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and celebrations. With its irresistible crunch, tender chicken, and rich flavor, country fried chicken is truly a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
In this article, we will dive into the process of making crispy country fried chicken, from marinating the chicken in buttermilk for extra flavor and tenderness to the finishing touch of a chicken gravy from broth that brings the whole dish together. Along the way, we’ll also explore the technique for freezing cooked chicken, making it easier to enjoy this classic dish anytime you want.
What Makes the Perfect Crispy Country Fried Chicken?
Crispy country fried chicken is a result of a perfect balance between crispy coating and moist, flavorful chicken. To achieve this, it’s important to use the right techniques and ingredients. Let’s break down each step of the recipe to ensure your chicken is as crispy and flavorful as possible.
1. Buttermilk Marinated Chicken: A Key to Tenderness
The key to tender, juicy fried chicken lies in marinating the meat. For buttermilk marinated chicken, the buttermilk serves two purposes. First, it adds flavor to the chicken, giving it a tangy kick. Second, the acids in buttermilk help tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy after frying.
To begin, place your chicken pieces—whether it’s thighs, breasts, or drumsticks—into a bowl or large resealable bag. Pour enough buttermilk over the chicken to submerge it completely. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other seasoning of your choice. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or, for best results, overnight. The longer the chicken sits in the buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
2. Preparing the Coating for Frying
After marinating the chicken, the next crucial step is preparing the crispy coating. For baked breaded chicken or country fried chicken, you need a combination of flour and seasoning to create a flavorful, crunchy coating that will stick well to the chicken.
In a separate shallow bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and any other seasoning you like. The addition of cornstarch is what makes the chicken extra crispy, while the baking powder helps to create a light, airy texture in the coating. For extra flavor, you can add some cayenne pepper or garlic powder.
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated before moving on to the next.
3. Frying the Chicken
Once your chicken is coated, it’s time to fry. In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 2 inches deep. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Carefully place your breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam instead of fry, preventing it from becoming crispy. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If the coating starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the crust.
4. Chicken Gravy from Broth: A Delicious Finishing Touch
No Southern meal is complete without chicken gravy from broth. The gravy adds richness to the dish and complements the crispy chicken perfectly. To make chicken gravy, start by using the drippings left in the skillet after frying the chicken. These drippings are packed with flavor and will form the base of your gravy.
First, remove any excess oil from the pan, leaving about a tablespoon of drippings. Add a bit of flour to the pan and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. The roux helps to thicken the gravy and gives it a smooth texture. Gradually add chicken broth while continuing to stir, ensuring the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Pour the gravy over your crispy fried chicken for the perfect finishing touch.
5. Side Dishes to Serve with Your Country Fried Chicken
While the chicken itself is the star of the show, Southern comfort food is best enjoyed with a variety of delicious side dishes. Here are some popular options to serve alongside your crispy country fried chicken:
- Chicken Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the crispy chicken. The potatoes’ richness pairs beautifully with the savory gravy and tender meat.
- Collard Greens: A classic Southern side, collard greens provide a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the rich flavors of fried chicken.
- Cornbread: A warm, buttery slice of cornbread is the ideal accompaniment to mop up any leftover gravy on your plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy, creamy serving of macaroni and cheese is a comforting side that pairs well with the crunchy chicken.
- Biscuits: Soft, fluffy biscuits are another Southern classic that complements fried chicken with their rich texture.
6. Freezing Cooked Chicken: Make It Last Longer
If you have leftover chicken or want to prepare it in advance, freezing cooked chicken is a great option. Freezing allows you to enjoy crispy country fried chicken without the effort of frying each time.
To freeze cooked chicken, let the fried pieces cool completely to room temperature. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and freeze it for 1-2 hours until the chicken is firm. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your fried chicken again, simply reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy again. This method will ensure the chicken retains its crunch and flavor, just like when it was first made.
7. Reheat Chicken: The Right Way
When you’re reheating country fried chicken, the key is to avoid making the crust soggy. The best way to reheat fried chicken is by using an oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, keeping the coating crispy. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat chicken in a skillet with a little oil, frying it for a couple of minutes on each side until the coating crisps up again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the coating to become soft and chewy.
Conclusion: Comfort Food Southern Style
Crispy country fried chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a Southern tradition that brings people together around the table. With its perfectly fried, crispy coating and juicy, tender chicken inside, it’s no wonder this dish is beloved by so many.
By following the tips outlined above, from buttermilk marinated chicken to the rich chicken gravy from broth, you can make a country fried chicken meal that rivals any restaurant. Don’t forget to pair it with comforting sides like chicken mashed potatoes, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese for the full Southern experience.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving some comfort food, country fried chicken is sure to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy!
