Recreating KFC’s iconic fried chicken at home can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Known for its crispy, flavorful coating and juicy meat, KFC’s fried chicken has been a favorite for generations.
This detailed guide will walk you through the steps to make your own version of KFC fried chicken, complete with the secret blend of herbs and spices.
Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the chicken:
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 8-10 pieces of your choice)
– 2 cups of buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the seasoning mix:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– 1 tablespoon of onion powder
– 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon of dried basil
– 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon of celery salt
– 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon of ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
Preparing the Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce (if using), ten whisk until well blended.
Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Making the Seasoning Mix
1. Combine the Spices
In a large, shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour with all the seasoning mix ingredients.
This includes salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, ginger, mustard, and white pepper.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Dredging the Chicken
1. Prepare the Dredging Station
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
Set up a dredging station with the seasoned flour in a shallow dish.
Keep a clean plate or tray nearby for the coated chicken.
2. Coat the Chicken
Take one piece of chicken at a time from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing down firmly to ensure a good coating.
Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a clean plate or tray.
Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
Frying the Chicken
1. Heat the Oil
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
2. Fry the Chicken
Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy chicken.
Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
This should take about 12–15 minutes per batch, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Tips for Perfect KFC Fried Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the seasoned flour adhere better, resulting in a crispier coating.
2. Seasoning Mix
The blend of 11 herbs and spices is crucial for achieving that signature KFC flavor.
Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.
3. Consistent Oil Temperature
Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is key to crispy, golden-brown chicken.
Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and adjust the heat as necessary.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the oil temperature to drop and result in soggy chicken.
5. Drain Properly
Let the fried chicken drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep it crispy.
Serving Suggestions
KFC-style fried chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and condiments.
Here are some ideas:
1. Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
A classic combination that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
2. Coleslaw
A cool, creamy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the hot, crunchy chicken.
3. Biscuits
Fluffy biscuits are great for sopping up any extra gravy or simply enjoying with the chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob
Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a simple yet delicious side dish.
5. Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a favorite comfort food that pairs well with fried chicken.
Nutritional Information
While fried chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s also indulgent.
Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings from the recipe):
– Calories: 400-500
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 2g
Storing and Reheating
Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store and reheat leftovers with good results.
1. Storing
Allow the fried chicken to cool to room temperature.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Conclusion
Making KFC-style fried chicken at home is a fun and rewarding project that results in delicious, crispy, and flavorful chicken.
By following this detailed guide, you can achieve that signature KFC taste.
Serve your homemade fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
