Name: Crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy for Comfort Food Lovers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used.); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Essential for crispiness.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Alternative: fresh garlic.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional.); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (Smoked paprika is also an option.); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust down if using table salt.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Omit if unavailable.); 1 box Oyster Mushrooms (Portobello can be substituted.); 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (Regular milk is an alternative.); 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (Lemon juice can be a substitute.); 1 cup Vegetable Oil (Canola oil is a good alternative.); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (For finishing.); 2 tablespoons Vegan Butter (Regular butter can be used.); 1 cup Cremini Mushrooms (Button mushrooms can substitute.); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Optional.); to taste Chopped Chives (Green onions are a good substitute.)

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The sizzling sound of breaded mushrooms hitting hot oil instantly transports me back to my childhood kitchen, where my family would gather, eager for a warm, comforting meal. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy, an irresistible blend of crispy texture and savory richness that is sure to delight your taste buds. This dish not only brings a satisfying crunch to your table but also pairs perfectly with creamy gravy that elevates it to true comfort food status. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time. Ready to discover how you can bring this delightful dish to life? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Chicken-Fried Mushrooms So Irresistible?

Crispy Texture: The fried oyster mushrooms deliver a satisfying crunch that rivals any classic fried chicken.

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the lengthy prep times.

Vegan Twist: It’s indulgent yet plant-based, making it a delightful option for everyone, whether you’re vegan or just looking to reduce meat intake.

Creamy Gravy: The rich mushroom gravy adds a luxurious touch, offering the perfect complement to the crispy mushrooms that will keep you coming back for more.

Versatile Dish: Pair it with sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a complete meal, or serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these Chicken-Fried Mushrooms will impress even the toughest critics—just like my Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms!

Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Ingredients

For the Mushrooms
• Oyster Mushrooms – These serve as the main ingredient, mimicking chicken’s texture; feel free to substitute with portobello mushrooms if you prefer a firmer bite.
• All-Purpose Flour – Used to create the perfect coating for frying; gluten-free flour works well for a gluten-free option.
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving that extra crispiness in the coating; it’s best not to substitute this ingredient for optimal results.
• Sweet Paprika – Adds a lovely depth of flavor and color to the batter; you can switch it for smoked paprika for a different flavor twist.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile significantly; fresh garlic is a good alternative but may change the texture.
• Onion Powder – Adds savory notes to the batter; it’s optional if you prefer a milder taste.
• Turmeric – This gives a warm color and subtle earthiness; you can omit if unavailable.
• Kosher Salt – Boosts overall flavor; if using table salt, use a bit less to avoid over-salting.
• Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; adjust according to your heat preference.

For the Buttermilk Mixture
• Unsweetened Almond Milk – The base for your buttermilk; regular milk or other plant-based options work just as well.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Combines with almond milk to mimic buttermilk; lemon juice is a suitable substitute in a pinch.

For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – This is crucial for frying, contributing to the crispy texture; canola oil is a great alternative.
• Flaky Sea Salt – A finishing touch that enhances flavor contrast, making each bite pop.

For the Gravy
• Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the gravy; if vegan isn’t necessary, regular butter can be used.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Provides additional texture and flavor for the gravy; you can use button mushrooms if that’s what you have on hand.
• Garlic (minced) – Fresh flavor in the gravy; feel free to omit if you’re keeping it simple.
• Chopped Chives – For garnishing, adding a burst of freshness and color; green onions work just as well for this purpose.

Let’s gather these ingredients and transform them into a delicious meal that eliminates fast food cravings and satisfies the appetite for comfort food!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to curdle, creating a vegan buttermilk. This acts as a flavorful base, enhancing the Chicken-Fried Mushrooms when coated.

Step 2: Mix the Coating Mixture
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, sweet paprika, and a pinch of turmeric, along with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir well until the spices are evenly incorporated, creating a fragrant coating that will deliver flavor and crispiness to the fried mushrooms.

Step 3: Dredge the Mushrooms
Take your oyster mushrooms and first dip them into the dry coating mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Then immerse them into the prepared buttermilk for a few seconds before returning them to the dry mixture for a second, generous coating. This double-dipping method guarantees a satisfyingly crispy texture in your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms.

Step 4: Heat the Oil for Frying
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully drop in a small amount of the coating mixture; it should sizzle immediately. When appropriately heated, this oil will create a golden crust on your mushrooms.

Step 5: Fry the Mushrooms
Carefully add the coated oyster mushrooms to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on their color, aiming for a rich golden brown. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried mushrooms onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, keeping them warm until you finish frying the rest.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Gravy
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of vegan butter over medium heat, then sauté 1 cup of finely chopped cremini mushrooms and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened, about 5 minutes. The mixture should become fragrant, adding depth to your gravy while creating a savory base for your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring well to combine. Gradually pour in 1 cup of almond milk, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens and becomes creamy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. It’s essential to cook it until bubbling and thickened for the best flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms are golden and the gravy is thick, it’s time to serve! Arrange the crispy mushrooms on plates, generously ladle the creamy mushroom gravy over them, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped chives for a touch of freshness. This delightful dish is best enjoyed hot!

Expert Tips for Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy

• Hot Oil Check: Always make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; a small drop of batter should sizzle. This ensures a crispy finish.

• Double Coating: Don’t skip the double coating process! It creates a thicker, crunchier outer layer for your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms, enhancing their texture.

• Drain Properly: After frying, allow the mushrooms to drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, keeping them light and crispy.

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different mushroom types or add cayenne pepper to the coating for an extra kick.

• Saving Leftovers: Store leftover fried mushrooms in an airtight container and reheat them in an air fryer for that crispy texture again!

• Gravy Grains: Whisk the gravy continuously to avoid lumps; it should be creamy and smooth for the best accompaniment to your Chicken-Fried Mushrooms.

Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Variations

Feel free to put your spin on this delightful recipe and enhance it with these fun twists!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the coating mixture for an extra burst of heat. That little boost can transform each bite into a fiery delight!
Mushroom Medley: Swap oyster mushrooms with shiitake or portobello for exciting new textures and flavors. Experimenting with different varieties keeps this dish fresh and fun.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the coating to make this dish accessible to everyone. Everyone deserves a taste of that crispy deliciousness!
Smoky Flavor: Switch sweet paprika for smoked paprika, bringing a robust flavor to the batter that will delight your taste buds. Trust me; you’ll love this smoky twist!
Earthy Variants: Mix in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour blend for an aromatic boost. It’s a simple change that introduces delightful depth to your dish.
Creamy Upgrade: Blend in some nutritional yeast to the gravy for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It adds a nourishing element while enhancing that comforting richness in the sauce.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or onions into the gravy. Not only does this add texture, but it also makes your dish visually appealing and hearty.
Crispy Topping: For an irresistible textured finish, sprinkle fried shallots or crispy onions on top before serving. The crunch makes a perfect topping to elevate each bite!

So grab your apron and get creative! You might also want to check out my Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms for another delicious twist on mushroom magic or my savory Garlic Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms for a hearty meal option. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken-Fried Mushrooms

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken-Fried Mushrooms in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and moisture.

Freezer: Freeze crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place frozen mushrooms in an air fryer or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Gravy Storage: The creamy gravy can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk for the perfect consistency.

What to Serve with Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy?

Building a full meal around these crispy indulgences will surely make your dining experience memorable.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side is perfect for soaking up that rich gravy, adding a comforting, velvety texture.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the fried mushrooms, perfectly balancing flavors and textures.
Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread adds a deliciously soft, slightly sweet touch that complements the savory notes of the fried mushrooms.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread is excellent for mopping up every last bit of gravy, fulfilling those carb cravings with a flavor punch.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring vibrant color and a fresh element to the meal, cutting through the richness of the gravy.
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: A zesty pickle offers a tangy bite, enhancing the overall flavor profile and adding a delightful crunch.
Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like sweet tea or lemonade can cleanse the palate beautifully, making every bite delightful.
Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of moist chocolate cake wraps up the meal on a sweet note, contrasting beautifully with the savory chicken-fried mushrooms.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the buttermilk (1 cup almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar) and the coating mixture (1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also dredge the mushrooms and store them in a single layer in the fridge for up to 3 days, just be sure to dredge them just before frying to keep the coating crispy. When ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the mushrooms as instructed, then prepare the creamy gravy fresh to enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich flavors just as delicious as if made the same day!

Chicken-Fried Mushrooms & Gravy Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right oyster mushrooms?
Absolutely! Look for oyster mushrooms that are firm and plump. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel wilted, as this indicates they may be past their prime. Fresh mushrooms should smell earthy and have a pleasant aroma.

What is the best way to store leftover Chicken-Fried Mushrooms?
I recommend placing leftover Chicken-Fried Mushrooms in an airtight container and refrigerating them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, air-fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, so they regain their crispy texture!

Can I freeze Chicken-Fried Mushrooms?
Yes! To freeze your crispy Chicken-Fried Mushrooms, first place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in an air fryer for that freshly fried crunch!

What if my gravy comes out lumpy?
Very! If your gravy turns out lumpy, don’t worry; just take a whisk and vigorously whisk it over low heat. If it doesn’t smooth out, consider straining it through a fine sieve for the silkiest texture. A little patience goes a long way in achieving that creamy finish!

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free, and you’re all set for a delicious, inclusive meal!