Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMerle's Whiskey KitchenClassic Fried Chicken Recipe

Classic Fried Chicken Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.

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Ingredients

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Fried Chicken

Mashed Potatoes

Gravy

Method

Fried Chicken

  1. 1

    Marinate the Chicken

    Place the cut chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Flour Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Dredge the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

  4. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. 5

    Fry the Chicken

    Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

  6. 6

    Drain the Chicken

    Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Mashed Potatoes

  1. 7

    Boil the Potatoes

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the quartered potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  2. 8

    Mash the Potatoes

    Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and black pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Gravy

  1. 9

    Make the Roux

    In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

  2. 10

    Add the Broth

    Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 11

    Season the Gravy

    Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust consistency with additional broth if necessary.

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