When you think of fried chicken, KFC is undoubtedly one of the first names that comes to mind. Known worldwide for its crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned fried chicken, this iconic recipe has kept fans guessing for decades. What if we told you you could recreate this fast-food favourite right in your kitchen?
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for game night, or simply craving that finger-licking goodness, this guide will help you master a copycat KFC chicken recipe that comes tantalizingly close to the real deal. Stick around to uncover the crispy secrets and surprise your taste buds.
What Makes KFC Chicken Irresistible?
The magic of KFC lies in its 11 herbs and spices blended just right, giving every bite its signature flavour. However, KFC’s appeal is not just the seasoning. With its juicy, tender chicken encased in a crunch that could be heard across the room, the balance of texture and flavour elevates KFC to legendary status in the fast-food world.
The good news? You don’t have to work in KFC’s secret test kitchen to enjoy their fried chicken. The following recipe is a well-loved attempt to recreate that magical combination.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the reasons this iconic dish is so beloved is its simplicity. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
For the Chicken:
- 8–10 pieces of chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 large egg
For the Dredge (Coating):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For Frying:
- Neutral oil (e.g., canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)
Pro Tip: Use freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavours to get closer to the real KFC recipe.
Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade KFC
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, follow these steps to make your KFC-style fried chicken perfectly crispy, tender, and flavorful.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The secret to juicy fried chicken is in the marination.
- Combine the buttermilk and egg in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
- Add your chicken pieces into the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover the bowl (or seal the bag) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavour.
Step 2: Prepare the Dredge
A flavorful coating is crucial for that signature crunch.
- Mix the flour, cornstarch, and all the herbs and spices in a large shallow dish until well combined.
- Transfer about a quarter of the seasoned flour mixture into another small bowl. You’ll use this reserve later to create the crispy, nubbly texture KFC is known for.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess liquid drip back into the bowl.
- Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the process by dipping the chicken back into the marinade and re-coating it in the flour.
- Sprinkle the reserved seasoned flour over the top of the coated chicken for added texture.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
- Fill a deep frying pan or Dutch oven about halfway with your oil of choice. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C)—use a thermometer to maintain the temperature consistently.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each piece for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Transfer the fried chicken to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain off excess oil. This helps ensure the coating stays crispy.
Note: If you prefer baking rather than frying, set your oven to 400°F. Place the coated chicken on a greased tray, spray with oil, and bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Tasting and Serving Your Homemade KFC
Now comes the best part—digging into your well-deserved culinary creation! To complete the meal, serve your crispy chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits. Don’t forget your favourite dipping sauces, like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade KFC copycat recipe is satisfyingly close to the original. It allows you to control exactly what goes into your meal—no more mystery ingredients or waiting in drive-thru lines. You can tweak the spices to suit your taste, ensure top-notch freshness, and enjoy the thrill of successfully recreating a fast-food icon at home.
Add Your Twist
Want to personalize the recipe? Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chilli powder to the dredge for a kick.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Air Fryer Option: Coat your chicken lightly in oil and air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Experience the Joy of Cooking
Making KFC-style fried chicken from scratch is more than just satisfying a craving; it’s a fun kitchen experience perfect for sharing with family and friends. Experiment with the recipe; you might even discover your “secret blend” of flavours you love more than the original.
Are you ready to bring KFC’s iconic flavour to your kitchen? Gather your ingredients and try it tonight!
