If you crave the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and brings smiles around the dinner table, this Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. Crispy, golden chicken patties coated in a perfectly seasoned crust pair beautifully with a rich, velvety creamy gravy that’s packed with just the right amount of seasoning. It’s a timeless Southern classic that turns simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable feast, ideal for sharing with family or impressing friends on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe plays a crucial role — from the tender chicken breast to the blend of spices in the crispy coating, and the creamy milk that brings the gravy to life. Using familiar, straightforward ingredients keeps the flavors authentic and approachable, making this dish as comforting as it is flavorful.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Cut in half lengthwise for even, quick cooking and juicy tenderness.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for chicken): Simple seasonings that infuse the chicken with savory depth.
- 2/3 cup of oil: For frying; choose a neutral oil to achieve that golden crunch.
- 2 TBSP of butter: Adds richness and helps develop flavor in the skillet.
- 1 cup of flour: The base for coating and creating the gravy roux—super versatile!
- 2 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning: A vibrant spice blend that makes the crust bold and delicious.
- 1 cup of milk: Combined with the egg to moisten the coating and form the creamy gravy.
- 1 egg: Helps the flour mixture stick to the chicken for that crispy finish.
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken: Packed with flavor—perfect for making the gravy base.
- 1/3 cup of flour (extra): Used to thicken the creamy gravy to perfection.
- 3 cups of milk: Gradually added to the gravy for silky smoothness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the gravy just right.
How to Make Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by carefully slicing the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets that cook evenly and stay juicy. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the natural flavor before the coating stage.
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
Place a skillet over medium heat and add the oil along with the butter. This combination ensures your chicken fries in a flavorful, hot bath that will crisp up the coating beautifully without burning.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
Mix together the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. This spice blend is what elevates the crust — giving it boldness and a touch of smoky warmth that you’ll love.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk the milk and egg together in a shallow bowl. This helps the flour mixture adhere perfectly to the chicken, creating that irresistible crispy shell while keeping the inside tender.
Step 5: Dredge the Chicken
Dredge each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it again in the flour mixture. Double coating is key for that satisfyingly crunchy bite you’re craving.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot skillet and fry until each side is a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Step 7: Make the Creamy Gravy
Once your chicken is resting, it’s time for the star companion — the creamy gravy. Use the grease left in the skillet, whisk in the extra flour to create a roux, then slowly add the milk while stirring constantly. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the gravy thickens to a luscious, velvety coating perfect for draping over your crispy chicken.
Step 8: Serve
Pour your homemade creamy gravy generously over the crispy, perfectly fried chicken and prepare for the most delightful bite of comfort food happiness.
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pleasant pop of green and a subtle freshness that complements the creamy, savory flavors. For a little extra indulgence, a pat of melting butter on the chicken right before serving can’t be beaten!
Side Dishes
This dish shines with classic Southern sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, or buttery green beans. Each side brings its own texture and flavor while allowing the star of the show, the Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe, to take center stage.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken open-faced on toasted buttermilk bread to create a mouthwatering sandwich. Or layer it all in a warm casserole dish topped with extra gravy and shredded cheese for a soul-warming baked delight everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the chicken crust from becoming soggy and maintains the gravy’s creamy texture. They’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken and gravy, but for best results, freeze them separately. Wrap the chicken well to preserve crispiness when reheated; the gravy freezes beautifully in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven to help the coating stay crispy, and warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more moisture and a rich flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs take a bit longer to cook through.
What kind of oil is best for frying country fried chicken?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are great choices because they handle high heat well and won’t overpower the flavor of the chicken or seasoning.
How do I make the gravy thicker if it’s too runny?
If your gravy is too thin, whisk in a little more flour and cook it for a few additional minutes until it reaches the desired thickness. Make sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the coating and gravy. Just ensure your seasonings and steak seasoning blend are gluten-free too.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats well and makes a hearty meal any day of the week. Just keep the gravy separate until serving to maintain that crispy coating.
Final Thoughts
This Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is a heartfelt, delicious tribute to classic comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for gatherings big or small. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it might just become your go-to for cozy nights in and happy family dinners.
Print
Country Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Country Fried Chicken with Gravy recipe features tender chicken breasts seasoned and dredged in a seasoned flour coating, pan-fried to a crispy golden brown, and served with a rich, creamy homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. It’s a comforting classic Southern dish perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder (for seasoning chicken)
- 2/3 cup of oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Flour Coating
- 1 cup of flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons steak seasoning
Egg Mixture
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 egg
Gravy
- 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken
- 1/3 cup of flour
- 3 cups of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Season both sides thoroughly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add flavor before cooking.
- Heat Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add 2/3 cup of oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Heat until the butter is melted and the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with 2 teaspoons each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning. Mix thoroughly for an even seasoning blend.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 egg until smooth. This will help the flour coating adhere to the chicken.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg and milk mixture, and finally dredge it again in the flour mixture to ensure a thick, crispy crust.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Fry until the chicken is golden brown on both sides and cooked thoroughly inside, about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Make the Gravy: After removing the chicken, leave approximately 1/3 cup of frying grease in the skillet. Stir in 1/3 cup of flour to create a roux and cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring continuously. Cook over medium heat until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the crispy fried chicken and generously spoon the creamy gravy over the top. Serve hot for a delicious Southern comfort food experience.
Notes
- Cutting the chicken breasts in half ensures faster, even cooking and a crispier crust.
- Use medium heat to prevent burning the flour coating while cooking the chicken.
- For extra flavor, you can use buttermilk instead of regular milk in the egg mixture.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, add a bit more milk to reach desired consistency.
- Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
