Homemade Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Growing up in the South, I remember the smell of fried chicken in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was mixed with the scent of creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy. This combo brings back memories of family dinners and feeling at home. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for this beloved dish, which rivals KFC, Popeyes, and Church’s Chicken.

This homemade version stands out because it uses real, quality ingredients. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk for tenderness, then coated in a seasoned breading. The mashed potatoes are homemade, with just the right creaminess. The gravy is homemade, adding richness to the dish.

Key Takeaways

• Homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy offer a heartwarming and authentic Southern comfort food experience.
• The recipe uses real, high-quality ingredients like a buttermilk marinade and homemade gravy to elevate the dish.
• This classic combination can rival popular fast-food chains, providing a delicious and satisfying alternative.
• The recipe is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, evoking memories of home and tradition.
• The dish features a crispy, juicy fried chicken paired with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy for a truly comforting meal.

The Ultimate Guide to Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Comfort food is king, and fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy are its crown jewels. This classic combo has deep roots in the American South’s culinary history. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite among food lovers.

History of Southern Comfort Food

The story of southern comfort food starts with enslaved Africans in the United States. They brought their cooking traditions and ingredients. Over time, these merged with European and Native American influences, creating the dishes we adore today.

Why This Combination Works

The magic of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy is in their perfect mix. The crispy fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft mashed potatoes. The savory gravy brings it all together, making it a true comfort food masterpiece.

Regional Variations

Across the South, this dish has many regional twists. Louisiana’s chicken is heavily seasoned and fried, while the Carolinas prefer a lighter touch. Each variation shows the rich diversity of southern cuisine.

Region	Fried Chicken	Mashed Potatoes	Gravy
Louisiana	Heavily seasoned and fried	Creamy with Cajun spices	Rich, brown gravy with Cajun seasonings
Carolinas	Lightly breaded and baked	Smooth and silky	Creamy white gravy
Texas	Fried with a crispy, peppery crust	Chunky with skin-on potatoes	Robust, peppery brown gravy

Whether you love Louisiana’s bold flavors, the Carolinas’ elegance, or Texas’s charm, this dish is a southern staple. It’s a true gem of southern cuisine, comfort food, and soul food.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Fried Chicken

Creating delicious fried chicken starts with the ingredients. The quality of each part, from the chicken to the buttermilk marinade, is key. They all work together to give the chicken its amazing taste and texture.

The main ingredients for tasty fried chicken are:

• Chicken Breasts: Thin chicken breasts are perfect for a crispy, golden crust.
• Buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk makes it tender and juicy.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps create a crispy, light coating that keeps the chicken juicy.
• Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add extra crunch to the coating.
• Seasonings: Spices like salt, pepper, and paprika give the chicken a bold flavor.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is important for the best fried chicken. By choosing each ingredient carefully, you can make a dish that looks great and tastes amazing.

Ingredient	Amount
Chicken Breasts	6-8 thin sliced
Buttermilk	1 1/2 cup
Flour	2 cups
Breadcrumbs	1 cup
Salt	1 tsp
Pepper	1 tsp
Paprika	1 tsp
Garlic Powder	1 tsp
Cayenne Pepper	1/2 tsp

Buttermilk Marinade Secrets

Getting the perfect fried chicken starts with a great marinade. Using buttermilk is key for juicy, tender, and tasty results. The secret is in the right marinating times, seasoning mix, and temperature.

Proper Marination Times

I suggest marinating chicken in buttermilk for 1-2 hours, or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more the buttermilk’s enzymes work. They break down tough fibers, making the chicken tender and juicy.

Seasoning Ratios

The best marinade mix is 2 cups of buttermilk, 2 whisked eggs, and 3 teaspoons of salt. This blend seasons the chicken well. The eggs add richness, and the salt boosts the flavor.

Temperature Guidelines

Before frying, let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for 25-30 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly. It prevents the outside from burning while the inside stays tender.

By using these buttermilk marinade secrets, you’ll make your fried chicken crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s a true delight for your taste buds.

Mastering the Breading Technique

The secret to perfect fried chicken is in the breading. A well-balanced mix and a careful process are key. Follow these steps to make your fried chicken extra special.

Begin by mixing 1 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and spices like garlic and onion powder. Add 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Whisk 2 large eggs in a separate bowl for your breading station.

To coat the chicken right, start with the seasoned flour. Make sure each piece is well-covered. Then, dip the chicken in the eggs, letting excess drip off. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, covering all surfaces evenly.

Apply the breading just before frying for the best texture. Fry the chicken in 2 cups of hot vegetable oil at 350°F. Cook for 12 to 18 minutes, until it reaches 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy and fully cooked.

With this breading technique, your fried chicken will be crispy and flavorful. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and homemade gravy for a Southern comfort food feast.

Creating Silky Smooth Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes need the right potato and method to be silky smooth. They’re key in homestyle cooking, especially with fried chicken and gravy. Learning to make perfect mashed potatoes can take your dish to the next level.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For the creamiest mashed potatoes, choose starchy potatoes like Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper. These potatoes are high in starch, making them fluffy when mashed. Stay away from waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, as they can make the potatoes heavy and gummy.

Mashing Methods and Tools

• A potato ricer is the best tool for smooth mashed potatoes. It pushes the potatoes through tiny holes, making them silky and lump-free.
• If you don’t have a ricer, a masher with holes works too. Just mash gently to avoid a dense, gluey texture.
• Don’t use a beater or mixer. They can make the potatoes stiff and heavy.

Adding Creaminess

To make the potatoes even creamier, add melted butter, warm milk, and heavy cream or half-and-half. This mix of fats and liquids makes the potatoes velvety and indulgent. They’re perfect with your fried chicken and gravy.

Homestyle Gravy From Scratch

Homestyle gravy is a key part of southern cuisine. It pairs well with fried chicken and mashed potatoes, making it a comfort food classic. Making gravy from scratch might seem hard, but it’s easy with a few steps.

First, get your ingredients ready: 1/3 cup of chicken frying oil, 1/3 cup of flour, and 3 cups of milk. Start by making a roux, the base of great gravy. In a saucepan, mix oil and flour over medium heat, stirring constantly until it’s golden, about 2-3 minutes.

Slowly add the milk, whisking hard to avoid lumps. Lower the heat and simmer, stirring now and then, until it’s thick, usually 5-7 minutes. Add a bit of salt and black pepper to taste.

For smooth gravy, be patient and stir constantly. This way, you’ll get a silky sauce that’s sure to wow. Serve it with fried chicken and mashed potatoes for a memorable southern cuisine meal.

Homemade gravy is great because you can change it up. Try adding different herbs and spices to match your taste. Whether you like it peppery or with a hint of garlic, it will enhance your homestyle cooking dish.

Professional Tips for Crispy Chicken Coating

Getting the perfect crispy coating on fried chicken is an art. It takes practice to get it right. As a seasoned pro, I’m excited to share my top tips for a superior chicken coating every time.

Oil Temperature Control

Keeping the oil at the right temperature is key for crispy fried chicken. The ideal frying temperature is 350°F (175°C). Use a reliable thermometer to check the oil temperature and adjust as needed.

Make sure to use enough oil to cover the chicken by about half. This prevents the pieces from sticking together and ensures even cooking.

Proper Frying Techniques

• Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping when the edges start to turn golden brown.
• Use a thin, sturdy spatula to gently flip the chicken, taking care not to disrupt the delicate breading.
• Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip off, preventing the coating from becoming soggy.

With these tips for controlling oil temperature and frying technique, you’ll be on your way to perfecting the ultimate crispy fried chicken coating. Enjoy the mouthwatering results!

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving southern cuisine, presentation is key. Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy make a great family-style meal. Start by placing crispy fried chicken on a large platter or serving dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread and easy to grab.

Next, add creamy mashed potatoes and rich homemade gravy. For a full southern cuisine meal, include sides like buttery corn, green beans, or a side salad. These add balance to the comfort food main dish.

To make it feel like KFC, serve with warm bread rolls. For extra indulgence, offer crispy fries or potato wedges for gravy dipping. This lets everyone customize their meal.

Category	Value
Servings	8
Calories	225kcal
Chicken	3 cups
Butter	0.5 cup
Flour	0.5 cup
Broth	4 cups
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	10 minutes
Rating	4.61 from 41 votes
Carbs	7g
Protein	15g
Fat	15g
Sodium	578mg
Cholesterol	70mg
Potassium	229mg
Vitamin A	376IU
Vitamin C	8mg
Calcium	17mg
Iron	1mg

Whether it’s a family gathering or a southern-themed event, focus on the details. A well-presented fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy meal is unforgettable. It makes everyone feel at home.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping the flavors of homestyle southern cooking, like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy, fresh is key. By using the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy these dishes for days. This way, you can relish in the comfort of these classics whenever you want.

Proper Storage Methods

Leftover fried chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To keep the coating crispy, reheat it in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Mashed potatoes and gravy can also be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. To warm up the potatoes, gently reheat them on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or cream to keep them creamy. Reheat the gravy on the stove, stirring often, until it’s hot.

Best Reheating Practices

• For fried chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the chicken for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and crispy.
• Mashed potatoes can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to keep them creamy. Stir frequently until heated through.
• Gravy should be reheated gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it’s piping hot and fully warmed.

By sticking to these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting tastes of homestyle southern cooking for longer. Savor the deliciousness of your homestyle southern cuisine whenever you crave it!

Conclusion

Mastering homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy is key to a classic Southern cuisine experience. By following the techniques and tips in this guide, you can make this beloved comfort food. It rivals even the most renowned fast-food chains.

With crispy, juicy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, you can enjoy Southern flavors at home. This dish is perfect for casual weeknights and special occasions. It’s a hit at family gatherings.

Keep improving your skills and try new variations. I encourage you to add your own touches and explore different culinary influences. The possibilities are endless for this timeless Southern cuisine classic.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients for perfect fried chicken?

For perfect fried chicken, you need chicken breasts, buttermilk, flour, and breadcrumbs. Don’t forget a mix of seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are key for great taste and texture.

How should I marinate the chicken for maximum tenderness?

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 1-2 hours or overnight. Mix 2 cups buttermilk, 2 whisked eggs, and 3 teaspoons salt for the marinade. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 25-30 minutes before frying.

What type of potatoes are best for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes?

Choose starchy potatoes like Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper for the best mashed potatoes. A potato ricer gives the smoothest texture. If you don’t have one, a masher with holes works too. Add melted butter, cream, and milk for creaminess.

How do I make homemade gravy to accompany the fried chicken and mashed potatoes?

To make gravy, use 1/3 cup chicken frying oil, 1/3 cup flour, and 3 cups of milk. Start by making a roux with oil and flour, then add milk slowly while stirring. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s the right thickness.

What is the optimal oil temperature for frying the chicken?

Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) for the best frying. Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the chicken by half. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, flipping when the edges start to brown.

How should I store and reheat the leftover fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy?

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy. For mashed potatoes and gravy, reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.

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