Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the heart of Southern cuisine with this irresistible Virginia Fried Chicken recipe! Imagine golden, crispy chicken with a perfectly seasoned crust that crackles with every bite, paired with a velvety cream gravy that will make your taste buds dance. This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a culinary experience that brings the warmth and tradition of Southern cooking right to your dinner table. Whether you're a fried chicken enthusiast or a curious home cook, get ready to unlock the secrets of the most addictively delicious chicken you'll ever taste!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of chicken (legs or thighs)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp flour (for gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the pieces dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
- Pour buttermilk into a shallow dish and soak chicken pieces for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to tenderize the meat.
- In a separate wide bowl, mix all-purpose flour with paprika, additional salt, and black pepper to create the coating mixture.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan with enough oil to reach about 1/2 inch deep, bringing the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep crispy.
- For the cream gravy, drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons and the browned bits.
- Add butter to the skillet and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour, whisking constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, continuing to whisk until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season gravy with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately alongside the crispy fried chicken.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Buttermilk Magic: Soaking chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and a crispy exterior. Use a deep-fry thermometer if possible.
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even browning.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack to keep the crust crispy and prevent sogginess.
- Gravy Tip: Whisk constantly when making the roux to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Recommendation: For the most authentic flavor and best heat distribution, use a cast-iron skillet if available.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
