Have you ever bitten into a piece of crispy, flavorful fried chicken and thought, “I wish I could make this at home!”? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I recreated my own KFC-style chicken recipe. It’s incredible how just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something so magical.

You can also enjoy similar homemade delights like this chicken parmesan recipe if you’re in the mood for a twist on classic favorites. Trust me, this recipe is worth every minute spent in the kitchen!

Credit: mashed.com

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to achieve that distinct KFC taste right in your own home.

1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces): Whole chicken gives you a mix of juicy white and dark meat.
2 cups buttermilk: Helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the breading; regular flour works perfectly here.
1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth.
1 tablespoon onion powder and garlic powder (each): These bring in rich, savory elements.
1/2 tablespoon salt and freshly ground pepper (each): Enhances flavor at every bite.
1 teaspoon white pepper and cayenne pepper (each): Adds a mild but noticeable heat.
1 teaspoon dried thyme, oregano, and basil mix (each): This herb blend mimics the classic KFC seasoning.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral oil works best for that signature crisp.

Note: This recipe makes about 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for larger batches.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe to suit your needs!

Gluten-free: Replace flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Spicy lovers: Double the cayenne and white pepper quantities for extra heat!
Healthier option: Try air-frying instead of deep-frying to cut down on excess oil.
Flavor pop: Add a pinch of powdered mustard or ground coriander for more complexity.

Cooking Time

Here’s what to expect in terms of timing.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Equipment You Need

Get these tools ready before you start cooking.

Heavy-duty skillet or deep fryer – For evenly frying the chicken.
Large mixing bowls – To marinate the chicken and prepare the breading.
Tongs – To flip and handle the chicken without losing the crust.
Baking sheet with wire rack – Helps drain excess oil post-frying.
Instant-read thermometer – Ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

How to Make KFC Fried Chicken?

Making KFC fried chicken at home is easier than you think. A few key tips will guarantee restaurant-quality results every single time.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your whole chicken into 8 pieces. Combine buttermilk with a little salt and add the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Pop it in the fridge and marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best flavor. This is essential for tender, juicy meat!

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

Mix all-purpose flour with the dry spices in a large bowl. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and herbs will give you the signature KFC taste. Be sure to mix thoroughly so every piece of chicken gets coated with all the flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off. Toss the pieces into the breading mixture one at a time, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well. A double dip (back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again) will give you an extra crispy crust.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F.

Step 5: Rest and Enjoy

Place the fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve while it’s still hot for the ultimate crunch.

Credit: mashed.com

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From experience, I’ve found these tricks really enhance your final outcome!

Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best taste and texture.
Don’t skip marinating overnight; it makes a world of difference.
Always season your breading generously to get a bold flavor.
Fry in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature for even cooking.
If you’re interested in trying something new later, give this chicken alfredo recipe a shot!

How to Serve KFC Fried Chicken?

KFC fried chicken is versatile, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Pair it with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or coleslaw for a traditional style. Serve the pieces on a platter, and garnish with fresh parsley for a dash of color. Offering various dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch adds even more excitement to the meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition in this recipe (per serving).

Calories: 450
Protein: 28 grams
Carbohydrates: 25 grams
Fat: 26 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, follow these storage instructions.

Restoring leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze fully cooked chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes to regain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is a standout for so many reasons.

Easy and beginner-friendly: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spices to match your flavor preferences.
Crave-worthy results: Achieve restaurant-quality fried chicken at home.
Versatility: Works well as a main dish or paired with sides.
Familiar and comforting: The recipe has that nostalgic taste we all love.

For more fried chicken inspiration, you can also check out other chicken recipes to broaden your culinary horizons. Suit up with your apron, heat up the oil, and enjoy the crispy crunch of your creation!

Ash Tyrrell