Crispy chicken-fried bacon strips drizzled with white sauce on wooden board.

Chicken-Fried Bacon

Learn how to make crispy, golden chicken-fried bacon at home! A Texas State Fair favorite transformed into an indulgent comfort food classic.

Chicken-Fried Bacon

This recipe comes from Matt Pittman, CEO of Meat Church BBQ, YouTube personality, and friend of Montana Knife Company.

Servings

8

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Calories

295

Cuisine

Southern

Category

Snack

When we say something is “chicken-fried,” we’re talking about coating it in seasoned flour and pan-frying it until it’s golden brown. The result? Pure Texas comfort food that’ll make your mouth water.

I love chicken frying different proteins at home, and this chicken-fried bacon recipe takes me back to my first taste at the State Fair of Texas. Now, I’m bringing this crispy, indulgent chicken-fried bacon to your kitchen.

Chicken-Fried Bacon

Ingredients

    For the bacon:

    • 1 package thick-cut bacon
    • 2 cups seasoned flour or chicken-fried breading
    • 3 cups peanut oil (best for high-heat frying)
    • Your favorite seasoning blend for the bacon
    • Extra seasoning for the breading mix

    For the egg wash:

    • 4 eggs
    • 1/2 cup buttermilk or beer

    For serving:

    • Homemade jalapeño ranch
    • Cream gravy (optional)

    Tools needed:

    Directions

      Making mouthwatering chicken-fried bacon takes only three steps:

        1. Set up your frying station:

        1. Heat peanut oil in your cast iron to 325°F

        2. Mix eggs and buttermilk in one bowl

        3. Combine seasoned flour and seasoning in another bowl

        2. Prep your bacon:

        1. Using your favorite kitchen knife, cut strips in half for easier handling

        2. Season both sides lightly

        3. Double dredge each piece:
          Coat in seasoned flour
          Dip in egg wash
          Back in flour for a final coat

        3. Time to fry:

        1. Carefully place bacon in hot oil

        2. Cook 2–3 minutes per side

        3. When bacon is golden brown, transfer to wire rack to drain