KFC Fried Chicken Recipe at Home

Ever craved that crispy, delicious KFC fried chicken but wanted to make it in the comfort of your own kitchen? You’re in luck! Today, we’ll guide you through a simple, step-by-step recipe to create KFC-style fried chicken at home. Prepare to wow your loved ones and friends with this delicious gift!

Why Make KFC Fried Chicken at Home?

Making KFC fried chicken at home has its perks:

• Customize to Your Taste: Adjust the spices and flavors to suit your preferences.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients for a healthier meal.
• Fun Activity: Cooking can be a fun family activity.
• Save Money: Homemade meals are often more budget-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make KFC-style fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• Eight pieces of chicken, either wings, thighs, or drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, if desired, for a little kick

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Guide

Watch Youtube Video Step-by-Step

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. Combine the buttermilk, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl.
2. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly after adding them to the basin.
3. For optimal taste, let the bowl covered and marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight.

2. Prepare the Coating

1. In another large bowl, combine the flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, basil, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Take the chicken pieces out of the buttermilk marinade and let any excess drip off.
2. Make careful to thoroughly coat each piece of chicken by dredging it in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
3. Coat the chicken in the flour mixture one more after dipping it back into the buttermilk marinade for a crispy finish.

4. Fry the Chicken

1. In a large deep pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the coated chicken pieces in the heated oil with caution. Be careful not to fill the pan to overflowing.
3. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy after 15 to 20 minutes of frying, rotating periodically. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) by using a meat thermometer.
4. After taking the chicken out of the oil, set it on a platter covered with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy your homemade KFC-style fried chicken with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

• Double Dip: Dip the chicken twice in the combination of flour and buttermilk for a more crispy coating.
• Check the temperature: Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly by using a meat thermometer.
• Rest Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to settle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Not Preheating the Oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid a greasy outcome.
• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Fried Chicken

While fried chicken is a treat, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients:

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken and spices.
• Less Oil: Control the amount of oil used for frying.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to suit your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: You can make a substitute by mixing 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To get the finest results, reheat in the oven.

Final Words

Making KFC-style fried chicken at home is a fun and rewarding experience. From the crispy coating to the tender, juicy meat, every bite is a delight. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a homemade feast that your family and friends will love!