18 Crispy Fried Chicken Breast Recipes for Every Occasion

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March 31, 2025

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and juicy flavor of a perfectly cooked fried chicken breast. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just need a quick and delicious meal to get you through the week, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 crispy fried chicken breast recipes. From classic comfort food to bold international twists, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.

In this article, we’ll explore the ultimate guide to crispy fried chicken breasts, featuring a range of flavors and cooking methods to suit every taste and occasion. From spicy Nashville hot to sweet and sour, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy your cravings. So grab a plate, get ready to dig in, and let’s dive into the world of crispy fried chicken breast recipes!

Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Breast

Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Breast
Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Breast Recipe

Get ready for a crispy and juicy twist on traditional fried chicken with this classic buttermilk recipe. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Breast

Spicy Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Breast
Experience the bold flavors of Music City with this recipe for Spicy Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Breast. Crispy, juicy, and infused with a spicy kick, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, coating completely, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and sprinkle with Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken Breast

Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this crispy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Add the coated chicken breasts and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
7. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of each breast and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Honey Mustard Glazed Fried Chicken Breast

Honey Mustard Glazed Fried Chicken Breast
A sweet and tangy twist on classic fried chicken, this recipe combines the richness of honey with the pungency of mustard for a flavorful and crispy treat.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard.
7. Brush the glaze over the fried chicken during the last minute of cooking.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total

Crispy Panko Fried Chicken Breast

Crispy Panko Fried Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and juicy panko fried chicken breast recipe. With a crunchy exterior and tender interior, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Southern-Style Fried Chicken Breast with Gravy

Southern-Style Fried Chicken Breast with Gravy
A classic Southern comfort food recipe that yields crispy, juicy fried chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy gravy.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. To make gravy, melt butter in the same skillet. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Serve fried chicken with warm gravy spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken Breast

Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this tangy and aromatic recipe that combines the brightness of lemon zest with the warmth of black pepper. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon zest.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Buffalo Fried Chicken Breast with Blue Cheese Dip

Buffalo Fried Chicken Breast with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this bold combination of crispy fried chicken and creamy blue cheese dip, kicked up a notch with spicy buffalo sauce.

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

For the blue cheese dip:

– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
5. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, blue cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing for the dip.
6. Serve fried chicken with blue cheese dip and garnish with chopped green onions.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Korean Fried Chicken Breast (Dakgangjeong)

Korean Fried Chicken Breast (Dakgangjeong)
Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside – this Korean-style fried chicken breast recipe is a game-changer. With a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s perfect for snacking or as part of a larger meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gochujang sauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, chili flakes, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with gochujang sauce.

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total

Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Breast

Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Breast
Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Breast Recipe

Summary: Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Cajun Spiced Fried Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total

Fried Chicken Breast Sandwich with Slaw

Fried Chicken Breast Sandwich with Slaw
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering sandwich featuring crispy fried chicken breast, tangy slaw, and soft buns. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Slaw ingredients (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)

Slaw:

– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
3. Fry chicken breasts in hot oil until golden brown (5-6 minutes per side).
4. Assemble sandwiches with fried chicken, slaw, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and buns.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Maple Glazed Fried Chicken Breast

Maple Glazed Fried Chicken Breast
Add a touch of sweetness to your fried chicken game with this simple recipe. This maple glazed fried chicken breast is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drizzled with a sweet and sticky glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Maple glaze (see below)

Maple Glaze:

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated chicken breasts in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes per side).
5. While still warm, brush with maple glaze (mix together maple syrup, honey, and apple cider vinegar).
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Herb-Crusted Fried Chicken Breast

Herb-Crusted Fried Chicken Breast
Elevate your fried chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring a blend of fresh herbs and crispy breading.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Fried Chicken Breast Tenders with Dipping Sauces

Fried Chicken Breast Tenders with Dipping Sauces
Treat your taste buds to crispy fried chicken breast tenders served with a trio of creamy dipping sauces.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauces (see below)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tenders for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels.

Dipping Sauces:

– Creamy Ranch: Mix 1 cup ranch dressing with 1 tablespoon sour cream.
– Honey Mustard: Whisk together 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup mustard, and 2 tablespoons buttermilk.
– Spicy Aioli: Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and 1 minced garlic clove.

Cooking Time: About 15 minutes

Enjoy your crispy fried chicken breast tenders with a side of creamy dipping sauces!

Sweet and Sour Fried Chicken Breast

Sweet and Sour Fried Chicken Breast
Sweet and Sour Fried Chicken Breast Recipe

A twist on traditional fried chicken, this sweet and sour version adds a tangy and sticky glaze to the crispy exterior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet and Sour Glaze (see below)

Sweet and Sour Glaze:

– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Brush with Sweet and Sour Glaze during the last minute of frying.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Fried Chicken Breast with Waffles

Fried Chicken Breast with Waffles
This classic comfort food combination is a match made in heaven – crispy fried chicken breast served atop a fluffy, golden waffle. The perfect brunch or dinner option for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Waffle batter mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh herbs and butter for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the waffles according to package instructions or your own recipe.
5. Serve fried chicken breast atop the waffle, garnished with fresh herbs and butter if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Paprika Fried Chicken Breast

Smoky Paprika Fried Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky twist on a classic. Crispy fried exterior gives way to juicy, flavorful breast meat, all thanks to the magic of smoky paprika.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons smoky paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, smoky paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated breasts on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil with tongs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Fried Chicken Breast Salad with Ranch Dressing

Fried Chicken Breast Salad with Ranch Dressing
Fried Chicken Breast Salad with Ranch Dressing Recipe Summary:
A crunchy and savory salad that combines the juiciness of fried chicken breast with the creaminess of ranch dressing, perfect for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup ranch dressing

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
3. Fry chicken breasts in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Chop fried chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and cilantro.
6. Add fried chicken to the salad and drizzle with ranch dressing.

Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 5-7 minutes
– Preparation time: 15-20 minutes
– Total time: 20-27 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your fried chicken game with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic buttermilk and spicy Nashville hot to garlicky parmesan and sweet maple glazed, there’s something for every occasion. Try crispy panko breading or Southern-style with gravy, or go bold with Korean-style dakgangjeong or Cajun-spiced. Don’t forget sandwiches, salads, and tenders with dipping sauces. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a flavorful twist, these recipes will have you clucking with joy!

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