If you’re craving a cozy, soul-warming meal that combines crispy, golden chicken with rich, velvety sauce, this Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite delivers that perfect crunch followed by tender, juicy chicken layered with a luscious creamy gravy that brings everything together in classic Southern style. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this dish will quickly become a beloved favorite on your dinner table.

Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but they are the backbone of flavor and texture for your Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken to the carefully balanced spices in the coating, every item plays a special role in creating that unforgettable crispy crust and rich gravy.

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces: Choosing skin-on keeps the chicken juicy and creates that iconic crispy crust.
2 cups buttermilk: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken for moist, flavorful meat.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The perfect base for dredging to get that crunchy exterior.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spicy heat without overpowering the dish.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides subtle smoky notes and beautiful color.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a classic savory depth.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Balances out the garlic with gentle sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Offers a kick for those who like a bit of heat.
Vegetable oil for frying: Neutral flavor and high smoke point create the perfect frying environment.
2 tablespoons reserved frying oil: Used in making that rich, creamy gravy.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy): Thickens the gravy to just the right consistency.
1 1/2 cups whole milk: Creates a creamy, smooth gravy that complements the fried chicken perfectly.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Final seasoning to elevate the gravy’s flavor.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken pieces into a large bowl or sealable bag and pour in the buttermilk. Letting the chicken soak for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a tangy flavor that makes every bite melt in your mouth. This step is crucial to that perfect juicy interior beneath the crispy crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This is where the magic begins: the spices marry with the flour to give the crust that signature Southern flavor and color. Once mixed, this seasoned flour is ready to coat the buttermilk-soaked chicken pieces.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure an even and hearty coating. Set the pieces aside on a tray for about 15 to 20 minutes so the flour adheres well—this little rest time is essential for a great crust that won’t fall apart once fried.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally to achieve even golden-brown crispness on all sides. It takes around 12 to 15 minutes per batch. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure perfectly cooked chicken. Once done, transfer the pieces to a wire rack over paper towels to drain any excess oil and rest before serving.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Gravy

Carefully reserve 2 tablespoons of the frying oil left in the skillet and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant—this forms the roux, the thickener for your creamy gravy. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly so the gravy thickens smoothly without lumps. After about 4 to 5 minutes, season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Pour this heavenly gravy generously over your fried chicken just before serving.

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe pop visually and flavor-wise, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. They add a fresh, vibrant green contrast that brightens the plate and adds a subtle herbal aroma that complements the creamy gravy perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when paired with classic Southern sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up every bit of that luscious gravy. Fluffy buttermilk biscuits, buttery collard greens, or crispy fried okra also make fantastic companions that create a full Southern feast sure to impress anyone at your table.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take the presentation up a notch, try serving individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or rustic wooden trays for that down-home charm. Layer your chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and drizzle the gravy artistically across the top. For casual gatherings, arrange pieces on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a splash of color and a hint of brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken and gravy separate if possible to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Reheat gently to maintain the crispiness of the coating.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or placing in freezer bags. For best texture, freeze the gravy separately in a sealed container as it reheats better on its own.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken in a 350°F oven on a wire rack to retain crispiness, about 15 to 20 minutes. Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often until warm and smooth. Combining reheated chicken with warm gravy brings back that fresh-from-the-kitchen feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but keep in mind the cooking time will be shorter and the meat will be leaner. Make sure not to overcook to prevent dryness.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to achieve the right acidity for tenderizing.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the cayenne pepper to your taste or add a pinch of hot paprika or cayenne powder to the flour mixture. You can also add hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for an extra kick.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

While frying yields the crispiest coating, you can bake the dredged chicken pieces on a wire rack at 425°F for about 30-35 minutes. It won’t have quite the same crunch but will still be delicious and less oily.

How do I know when the chicken is done frying?

The best way is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should also be golden brown and juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy Recipe is a true celebration of comforting, flavorful Southern cooking done right. The combination of crispy, tender chicken with that luxuriously creamy gravy creates a meal that’s as satisfying as a warm hug. Trust me, once you try making this, it will become a cherished classic in your home kitchen. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to delight yourself and your loved ones with every delicious bite!