Fried Chicken Breasts

We cook a lot of chicken recipes. Crock Pot Chicken Breast Recipes are always on the menu but this fried chicken breast recipe is what my family prefers. It has become my favorite Sunday evening meal because it is the ultimate comfort food.

The steps to create this crispy pan fried chicken are easy and made with simple ingredients. The chicken cooks golden brown on high heat on the stovetop for a delicious meal idea. We have even made Air Fryer Chicken Breast or Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe for another easy variation.

Why This Recipe Works

Pan Fried Chicken Breasts is loaded with flavor and cooks easily in the skillet. The chicken is covered with a delicious breading that is seasoned with simple spices that creates the best texture.

This chicken is even delicious diced and served over pasta or your favorite green salad.

Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs
• Buttermilk – Creates the best crispy texture on the chicken
• Vegetable Oil – Use oil of your choice. You can use avocado oil or peanut oil

For the full recipe, scroll to the bottom for the recipe card.

Variations Ideas

• Seasoning – Feel free to change the seasoning to what you prefer. You can use Italian Seasoning, cayenne pepper, or Cajun seasoning.

How to Make Fried Chicken Breasts

Step 1 – In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2 – Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Then pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 3 – Add the pounded chicken breasts to the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 4 – In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 5 – Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it is evenly coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 6 – In a deep dish skillet or pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil and fry for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

• Step 7 – Remove the fried chicken breasts from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Step 8 – Let the fried chicken breasts rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.

Expert Tips

• Marinate – For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture overnight. This not only makes the chicken super tender but also packs it with flavor.
• Hot Oil – Make sure the oil’s hot, around 350°F, before you start frying. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will soak up too much oil and end up greasy.
• Skillet – We recommend using a cast iron skillet for the best texture. But you you can use any skillet that you prefer.
• Chicken – It is important to make the chicken about the same size in thickness. This helps to fry the chicken evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken with Crockpot Mashed Potatoes Recipe, White Gravy Recipe and Crock Pot Green Beans for a complete meal idea. This fried chicken breasts recipe can also be used to make fried chicken sandwich for a quick lunch.

Other easy side dish ideas include Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe, Pan Fried Potatoes, Air Fryer Broccoli or Air Fryer Baked Potato. We even like to serve with this Chicken Dipping Sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Storing – Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.  
• Reheating – Reheat the leftovers in the air fryer for the perfect crispy texture. You can also reheat in the microwave until heated through.
• Freezing – Freeze the leftovers in an freezer safe container or a zip lock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to serve.