This recipe for KFC Style Fried Chicken brings the taste of your favorite fast-food fried chicken right to your kitchen. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s perfect for family dinners, picnics, or just a cozy night in. This homemade version lets you control the ingredients and flavors, making it a delicious and fun option for any occasion.
why make this recipe
Making KFC Style Fried Chicken at home can save you money while providing a comforting meal. You can customize the spice levels to fit your taste, and you will know exactly what goes into your food. Plus, frying chicken can be a fun cooking adventure that everyone can enjoy.
how to make KFC Style Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let excess drip off.
- In a separate bowl, add the flour. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-18 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
how to serve KFC Style Fried Chicken
Serve your KFC Style Fried Chicken hot with a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauces. It’s perfect for family gatherings or game day.
how to store KFC Style Fried Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the oven to maintain crispiness.
tips to make KFC Style Fried Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; this helps create a nice crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer; fry in batches for even cooking.
variation
You can try different seasonings in the buttermilk mixture to create variations. Lemon pepper or barbecue seasoning can add a new twist to this classic recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, you can use any parts of the chicken, including wings, thighs, or breasts.
2. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until cooked through, but it won’t be as crispy.
3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
KFC Style Fried Chicken
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup buttermilk Use as a marinade
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 pieces chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts) Choose your preferred cuts
Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour For dredging
Frying Oil
- Oil for frying Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Dredging
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let excess drip off.
- In a separate bowl, add the flour. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-18 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.