This Kentucky Fried Chicken Copycat Recipe brings the comfort of southern fried chicken to your home with the same crispy crunch you love. The secret blend of spices and perfectly fried chicken makes it a standout dish for any meal. Pair it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for an unforgettable experience.
The crispy, golden coating enveloping tender chicken pieces offers a satisfying crunch, followed by juicy meat that’s packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, a weekend dinner, or even a special treat to enjoy on your own. Whether you’re a fan of classic fried chicken or seeking a recipe that’s a bit more indulgent, this one is sure to deliver.
Full Recipe:
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8 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 egg
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1 cup buttermilk
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, basil, and baking powder.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
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Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F).
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Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
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Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
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Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful fried chicken!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) Copycat Recipe
Kentucky Fried Chicken, commonly known as KFC, has been a beloved comfort food for generations. Its signature blend of 11 herbs and spices has made it a household name, with the iconic golden crispy skin and tender, juicy chicken pieces. While it may be tempting to drive to the nearest KFC for your favorite fried chicken, there’s something special about recreating this iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. This KFC copycat recipe allows you to enjoy the same mouthwatering fried chicken without having to leave your home. It’s a fun way to bring the nostalgia of KFC to your dinner table and is surprisingly easy to make, especially when you have the right ingredients and a few helpful tips.
The Secret to Perfect Fried Chicken
The key to recreating KFC’s signature crispy fried chicken is the perfect blend of seasonings and techniques. While many have tried to guess the secret recipe, it was revealed by the Chicago Tribune in 2016 that the original recipe contains 11 herbs and spices. These include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, white pepper, and ground ginger, among others. When combined with the tenderizing effect of buttermilk and the right frying technique, you can achieve chicken that rivals KFC’s in both flavor and crunch.
Buttermilk is an essential ingredient in this recipe because it helps tenderize the chicken. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only makes the chicken juicier but also ensures that the seasoning sticks well. The seasoned flour creates a crispy coating that locks in all the flavor while keeping the meat moist and tender inside.
The Best Chicken Pieces for Frying
When it comes to fried chicken, you can use a variety of cuts, but for a true KFC-inspired experience, a whole chicken is often the best choice. A whole chicken allows you to break it down into 8 pieces, including breasts, thighs, wings, and drumsticks, just like the classic KFC bucket. This ensures that you get a variety of textures and flavors in each piece. However, if you prefer certain cuts, such as only thighs or wings, feel free to use those instead.
It’s important to note that chicken pieces should be at room temperature before frying to ensure an even cooking process. This step also helps achieve that perfect golden, crispy crust. Patting the chicken dry before breading is also a crucial step as it helps the flour mixture adhere better to the chicken, ensuring a more even coating and a crunchier texture.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
To make sure your fried chicken turns out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Temperature Control: The oil temperature is crucial when frying chicken. It should be between 350°F and 375°F for the crispiest chicken. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature before frying. Too hot, and the chicken will burn on the outside while staying raw inside; too cool, and the chicken will be greasy and soggy.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Overcrowding the frying pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches to keep the oil at the optimal temperature. Make sure each piece has enough room to fry evenly.
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Golden Brown Indicator: Wait until you see a golden brown line all around the chicken before flipping it. This indicates that the breading has crisped up evenly and the chicken is cooked through. Resist the temptation to turn the chicken too early to avoid disrupting the crust.
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Resting the Chicken: Once the chicken is fried, place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil, rather than a paper towel, which can cause the crust to become soggy. If you need to keep the chicken warm while frying the rest of the batch, place it in a preheated oven to maintain its crispiness.
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Marinate Overnight: For maximum tenderness and flavor, marinate your chicken overnight in buttermilk. If you’re short on time, an hour will work, but the longer the marination, the more flavor the chicken will absorb.
How to Achieve the Perfect Breading
The breading is what gives fried chicken its signature crunch. The key is to coat the chicken evenly with a seasoned flour mixture. After dipping the chicken in the buttermilk, make sure to coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Press down firmly to ensure the flour sticks to every crevice. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture that makes KFC fried chicken so irresistible.
Frying Techniques for Crispy Chicken
Deep frying can be intimidating, but with the right equipment and temperature control, it’s easier than it sounds. A deep fryer or a large Dutch oven is ideal for frying chicken. The deep fryer offers even heat distribution, while a Dutch oven allows for a deep cooking vessel that can hold enough oil for proper frying. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken, but not too much that the oil overflows when adding the chicken pieces.
The chicken should be fried in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each batch for about 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is golden brown. This method ensures that every piece is cooked perfectly, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
How to Store and Reheat Fried Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—fried chicken can be stored and reheated easily. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack set on a baking sheet and heat it in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If you want to freeze the chicken for later, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a Ziploc bag. Freeze it for up to three months, and then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions for Your Fried Chicken
While fried chicken is delicious on its own, serving it with classic side dishes can elevate the meal even further. Consider pairing your homemade fried chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and a side of creamy corn or mac and cheese. You can also bake fresh buttermilk biscuits for a complete, soul-satisfying Southern meal. These sides complement the crispy chicken and create a comforting and hearty meal that everyone will love.
For a twist, you can also serve your fried chicken with a dipping sauce or gravy. A honey mustard or spicy buffalo sauce can provide an exciting contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe
Making KFC-style fried chicken at home might seem like a daunting task, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the iconic crispy, flavorful fried chicken right in your own kitchen. With the perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and crispy breading, this recipe rivals anything you’d find in a fast-food bucket. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this homemade fried chicken will surely impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a beloved dish to your own table and enjoy the satisfaction of making it yourself.