How to Make the Ultimate Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe at Home
The most crunchy and juicy Southern-style fried chicken with a seasoned buttermilk coating and a rich, creamy gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
6-8 chicken breast cutlets
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 egg
1 tbsp hot sauce
Vegetable oil for frying
1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
2 cups milk (for gravy)
Instructions
1. Whisk buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce in a bowl.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in another bowl.
3. Dredge chicken in flour, then buttermilk, then flour again.
4. Heat oil to 325°F (165°C) in a large skillet.
5. Fry chicken 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Drain chicken on a wire rack.
7. For gravy, whisk 1/3 cup flour into 1/4 cup reserved frying oil.
8. Slowly add milk and whisk until thickened.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
Do not overcrowd the pan to keep the coating crispy.
Serve hot with the creamy pepper gravy.