Chicken Fried Bacon

Chicken Fried Bacon is a decadent twist on traditional Southern comfort food. By coating thick-cut bacon in a seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture and frying it to golden perfection, this dish offers a delightful crunch with every bite. The combination of spices adds a kick of flavor that perfectly complements the savory richness of the bacon.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to indulge in something truly special. Whether served as a hearty appetizer, a fun snack for game day, or a unique addition to your brunch menu, Chicken Fried Bacon is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that turns a casual meal into an unforgettable experience.

Full Recipe:

1 pound thick-cut bacon

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups cornmeal
2 teaspoons paprika

2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Dip each slice of bacon first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
Carefully place the bacon slices into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the bacon from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Origins and Popularity

Chicken Fried Bacon is a unique and indulgent twist on classic Southern comfort food. While the exact origins of this dish are somewhat unclear, it is believed to have emerged in the Southern United States, where frying is a beloved cooking method. The concept of frying bacon in a manner similar to chicken or other meats has caught on in recent years, particularly at fairs, food festivals, and Southern-style eateries. The dish plays on the idea of “chicken fried,” a term typically associated with Chicken Fried Steak, where the meat is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until crispy.

Flavor Profile and Texture

What makes Chicken Fried Bacon so irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, seasoned coating provides a satisfying crunch, while the bacon inside remains tender and flavorful. The spices in the batter, such as paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder, add a subtle heat and depth of flavor that complements the rich, salty bacon. This dish is the epitome of indulgence—each bite delivers a mix of savory, crispy, and slightly spicy goodness that is hard to resist.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Fried Bacon is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

Appetizer: Serve it as a starter at a Southern-themed dinner party or as a snack during game day gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with creamy dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.
Brunch Dish: Elevate your brunch menu by offering Chicken Fried Bacon alongside scrambled eggs, biscuits, and gravy. It adds a fun and flavorful twist to the traditional bacon and eggs.
Party Snack: This dish makes for a fantastic party snack. Arrange the crispy bacon strips on a platter with an assortment of dips, and watch them disappear quickly.

Nutritional Considerations

While Chicken Fried Bacon is undeniably delicious, it is also a rich and calorie-dense dish. Each serving contains approximately 360 kcal, making it a dish best enjoyed in moderation. For those looking to balance out the meal, consider serving it alongside lighter sides like a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Chicken Fried Bacon, here are a few tips:

Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thin bacon may become overly crisp and lose its tenderness when fried. Thick-cut bacon retains its juiciness, providing a better contrast to the crunchy coating.

Maintain the Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the bacon may absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the bacon is fully cooked.
Double Dip: For an extra crispy coating, dip the bacon in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. This double coating helps create that signature crunch.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is also highly customizable. You can experiment with different spices in the coating mixture, such as smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or add some herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a bit of a sweet and salty combination, consider drizzling the finished bacon with a touch of maple syrup or honey.

By including Chicken Fried Bacon in your recipe collection, you’re offering your audience a taste of Southern indulgence that is both comforting and memorable. It’s a dish that’s sure to stand out and be remembered long after the meal is over.

Cultural Significance and Modern Appeal

Chicken Fried Bacon represents a celebration of Southern culinary traditions where frying is an art form and bacon is a beloved staple. This dish has gained a cult following among food enthusiasts who appreciate indulgent, comfort foods that push the boundaries of traditional cooking. In recent years, it has been featured in various food festivals, state fairs, and even on popular food television shows, further cementing its status as a must-try dish for adventurous eaters.

Pairing Suggestions

While Chicken Fried Bacon is a star on its own, it can be paired with a variety of dishes and drinks to create a complete meal or dining experience:

Beverages: A cold beer, especially a light lager or pilsner, complements the richness of the fried bacon. The carbonation helps to cut through the fat and cleanse the palate between bites. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving it with a glass of iced tea with lemon or a tangy lemonade.
Side Dishes: Since Chicken Fried Bacon is quite rich, lighter sides like a crisp garden salad, grilled asparagus, or roasted sweet potatoes can balance the meal. For a more traditional Southern spread, serve it alongside buttermilk biscuits, collard greens, or mac and cheese.
Sauces: While ranch dressing and honey mustard are popular choices, you can also offer a variety of dipping sauces to suit different tastes. Try a smoky chipotle mayo, a tangy barbecue sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce for a fusion twist.

Fun Facts

State Fair Favorite: Chicken Fried Bacon is a staple at many state fairs across the Southern United States. It’s often served on a stick, making it easy to enjoy while strolling through the fairgrounds.
Guinness World Record: In 2008, the Texas State Fair introduced Chicken Fried Bacon, and it quickly became a sensation. The dish even earned a Guinness World Record for the “Most Bacon Prepared in Eight Hours” at the event.
Bacon Festivals: Due to its popularity, Chicken Fried Bacon is often featured at bacon festivals across the country, where it competes with other bacon-themed creations like bacon-wrapped jalapeños, bacon ice cream, and bacon-topped donuts.

Dietary Considerations

While Chicken Fried Bacon is undoubtedly a treat, it’s important to note that it’s a dish best enjoyed occasionally due to its high fat and calorie content. For those who are health-conscious but still want to indulge, consider using turkey bacon or a leaner cut of bacon to reduce the overall fat content. Additionally, air-frying the bacon instead of deep-frying it can cut down on the oil used, making it a slightly healthier option.

Variations on the Recipe

Chicken Fried Bacon is a versatile dish that lends itself to creative variations. Here are a few ideas:

Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add more cayenne pepper or even some chili powder to the flour mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or hot sauce.

Sweet and Savory: To create a sweet and savory version, drizzle the finished bacon with a bit of maple syrup or honey. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty bacon and crispy coating.
Cheese-Stuffed: For an extra indulgent twist, try stuffing the bacon with a thin slice of cheese before frying. Cheddar or pepper jack would work well, adding a melty surprise inside the crispy exterior.
Gluten-Free Option: If you have gluten-intolerant guests, you can easily adapt the recipe by using gluten-free flour and cornmeal. The rest of the process remains the same, ensuring everyone can enjoy this crispy treat.

Presentation Ideas

To make Chicken Fried Bacon even more visually appealing, consider the following presentation tips:

Plating: Serve the bacon on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces. Garnish the plate with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Serving Size: Cut the bacon strips in half before frying to create bite-sized pieces, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.

Garnish: Sprinkle some chopped green onions or grated Parmesan cheese over the fried bacon for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Historical Context

While Chicken Fried Bacon may seem like a modern invention, it draws on centuries-old Southern traditions of frying and preserving foods. In the past, frying was a practical way to cook meats, especially in rural areas where resources were limited, and preserving food for long periods was necessary. Bacon itself, made from pork belly that has been cured and sometimes smoked, has a long history dating back to ancient times, but it was the Southern United States that truly embraced it as a culinary staple.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Bacon is a dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Southern comfort food—bold, flavorful, and undeniably indulgent. Its crispy exterior, combined with the rich and savory taste of bacon, creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

As a modern twist on traditional frying techniques, Chicken Fried Bacon has found its place not just in homes but also at food festivals and on restaurant menus across the country. It’s a dish that invites creativity, offering endless possibilities for customization, from the spices used in the coating to the variety of dipping sauces that can accompany it.

While it’s a treat best enjoyed in moderation, Chicken Fried Bacon is a wonderful example of how classic ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit every time it’s served.

So, the next time you’re looking to indulge in something truly special, consider making Chicken Fried Bacon. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies the palate but also celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the South. With its crispy texture, bold flavors, and irresistible appeal, Chicken Fried Bacon is more than just a dish—it’s an experience.

Whether you’re a food blogger, a home cook, or simply a bacon enthusiast, this recipe is a must-try that will undoubtedly earn a spot in your collection of favorite indulgent treats. Enjoy the process of making it, savor each bite, and share the joy with those around you.