Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that brings families together. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish offers a crispy, savory experience topped with creamy gravy that everyone will enjoy. Its straightforward preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring that your meal is not only delicious but also easy to whip up on a busy day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: A hearty meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike, perfect for family gatherings.
- Versatile Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for a customizable dining experience.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of seasoned chicken and rich gravy creates a delightful comfort food experience.
- Quick Cooking Time: From prep to table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools on hand can make your cooking process smoother and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why These Tools Matter
- Large skillet: Ensures even cooking and allows you to fry multiple pieces of chicken at once.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing your flour mixture and egg wash without mess.
- Meat thermometer: Guarantees your chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 165 degrees.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in ingredient proportions for consistent results.
Ingredients
This is the ultimate comfort food and a recipe the whole family loves!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast
– salt, pepper, garlic powder (for chicken)
– 2/3 cup of oil
– 2 TBSP of butter
– 1 cup of flour
– 2 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning (for flour mixture)
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 egg
– 1/3 cup of grease from frying chicken
– 1/3 cup of flour
– 3 cups of milk
– salt and pepper to taste (for gravy)

How to Make Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2/3 cup of oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter.
Step 3: Make the Flour Mixture
- In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of flour with 2 teaspoons each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and steak seasoning.
Step 4: Prepare Egg Wash
- In another bowl or container, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 1 egg until well combined.
Step 5: Dredge the Chicken
- Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken first in the flour mixture.
- Dip into the egg wash.
- Return to coat in the flour mixture again.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
- Once the oil is hot enough (you can test by dropping a bit of flour into it), carefully add the chicken pieces.
- Fry each piece for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees).
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
- Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Step 8: Make the Gravy
- Pour out all but about 1/3 cup of oil from the skillet.
- Add 1/3 cup of flour to this oil to create a roux; cook for at least one minute until well incorporated.
- Gradually stir in 3 cups of milk while continuing to stir constantly until thickened; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your delicious Country Fried Chicken generously topped with creamy gravy! Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your next family dinner!
How to Serve Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, serving this meal with the right accompaniments enhances the overall experience.
Classic Plate Presentation
- Serve the chicken on a warm plate topped with a generous amount of gravy for a traditional look.
- Add a side of mashed potatoes or baked potatoes to complement the flavors.
Salad Pairing
- A fresh garden salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
Bread Options
- Serve with fluffy biscuits or cornbread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Toasted garlic bread can add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
Family-Style Serving
- Place the fried chicken and gravy in the center of the table for everyone to share.
- Provide individual plates so guests can help themselves and customize their servings.
How to Perfect Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
Getting your Country Fried Chicken and Gravy just right requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken will yield better flavor and texture than frozen options.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the frying oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding chicken; this prevents sogginess.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding lowers oil temperature and results in uneven cooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after frying helps retain juices, making it tender and flavorful.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy as you prepare it; adjust salt and pepper according to preference for a well-seasoned dish.

Best Side Dishes for Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
Pairing side dishes with Country Fried Chicken and Gravy enhances your meal. Here are some delightful options:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
A classic that pairs perfectly with gravy, these potatoes offer comfort in every bite. - Steamed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans add a fresh touch that complements the richness of the chicken. - Coleslaw
A tangy slaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the hearty flavors of fried chicken. - Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser; serve it grilled or boiled for added sweetness. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These caramelized sprouts bring an earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with fried chicken. - Macaroni and Cheese
A creamy mac adds indulgence, making it an irresistible choice alongside country fried favorites. - Baked Beans
The sweetness of baked beans pairs beautifully with savory fried chicken, enhancing its flavor profile. - Potato Salad
This chilled side offers a refreshing contrast, especially during summer gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Country Fried Chicken and Gravy, a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls.
- Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken enough can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season both sides generously.
- Bold oil temperature: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough will make the chicken greasy. Heat the oil until a small piece of bread sizzles when added.
- Bold flour coating: Skipping the second dredge in flour can result in a less crispy texture. Always coat the chicken again after dipping in the egg mixture.
- Bold cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken affects its texture and safety. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
- Bold gravy consistency: Adding too much milk all at once can make your gravy runny. Gradually whisk in milk to achieve your desired thickness.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Country Fried Chicken and Gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
- Freeze Country Fried Chicken and Gravy separately for best results.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring no air is trapped inside.
- Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, while gravy lasts about 2 months.
Reheating Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat chicken on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm gravy over low heat, stirring continuously until hot. Reheat chicken in a skillet until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Country Fried Chicken and Gravy?
Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is a classic comfort food featuring crispy fried chicken served with creamy gravy, perfect for family dinners.
How do I make sure my chicken stays crispy?
To maintain crispiness, avoid overcrowding your frying pan and ensure your oil temperature stays consistent during cooking.
Can I customize the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or oregano or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
What sides pair well with Country Fried Chicken and Gravy?
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw, enhancing the meal’s comfort food appeal.
Conclusion
Country Fried Chicken and Gravy is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or serve it alongside various sides. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Country Fried Chicken and Gravy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Country Fried Chicken and Gravy. This delightful dish features crispy, golden-brown chicken paired with a rich, creamy gravy that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures that even novice cooks can create a meal that feels special yet is simple enough for any busy day. With versatile serving options and comforting flavors, Country Fried Chicken and Gravy will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- 2/3 cup oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup flour
- 1/3 cup flour (for gravy)
- Spices: paprika
- Spices: steak seasoning
- 1 cup milk (divided)
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts lengthwise and season both sides.
- Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- In one bowl, combine flour with spices; in another bowl, whisk milk with egg.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg wash, then coat again with flour.
- Fry until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving 1/3 cup behind.
- Whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually stir in milk until thickened.
- Serve fried chicken topped with gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with gravy (150g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg