5 Ways to Make Fake KFC Chicken at Home

Introduction to Homemade KFC-Style Chicken

Who doesn’t love the taste of KFC fried chicken with its crunchy coating and perfectly seasoned blend of herbs and spices? Imagine the joy of enjoying that beloved flavor right in the comfort of your own home. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll reveal how you can recreate the iconic KFC chicken taste using ingredients readily available in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the delicious world of DIY KFC chicken!

Understand the Basics

Before we get our hands greasy, it’s essential to understand the core components of KFC’s famous recipe:

• Secret Blend of Spices: Though the exact recipe is a well-kept secret, fans have pieced together a mix of herbs and spices that closely replicates the original.
• Double Coating Technique: KFC uses a technique where the chicken is coated twice for maximum crunch.
• Frying at the Right Temperature: Achieving the perfect fry is about maintaining the oil temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked through while staying juicy and crispy.

1. Gather Your Ingredients

To start, you’ll need:

• Chicken Pieces: Choose between drumsticks, wings, or a mix for variety.
• Flour: All-purpose flour for the coating.
• Eggs: For the initial dip.
• Milk: For the egg wash.
• Spice Mix: Here’s where the magic happens:
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Dried basil
  • Dried oregano
  • Thyme
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • White pepper (optional for an authentic touch)
• Vegetable oil: For deep frying.

Preparing the Spice Mix

To create your herb and spice blend, follow these steps:

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and thyme, along with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of white pepper.
2. Mix well in a bowl to ensure even distribution.

💡 Note: You can adjust the quantities of the spices to suit your taste preferences.

2. Marinating the Chicken

Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness:

1. Mix 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of the spice mix in a bowl.
2. Add your chicken pieces, ensuring they’re well covered.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Breading and Double Coating

Here’s the technique:

1. Prepare your breading station: one bowl with egg and milk beaten together, another with seasoned flour.
2. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
3. Dip the chicken into the egg wash, then into the seasoned flour. Repeat this process once more for that extra crunch.
4. Let the chicken rest on a wire rack while you heat your oil.

💡 Note: Shaking off excess flour ensures a clean, crispy coating.

4. Frying the Chicken

Now to the frying part:

1. Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large, deep pot.
2. Carefully lower the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
3. Fry each piece for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and internal temperatures reach 165°F (74°C).

💡 Note: A digital thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked through safely.

5. Resting and Serving

After frying:

• Let the chicken rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is key to maintaining that crispiness.
• Serve hot with your favorite sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or gravy for a complete KFC-style meal at home.

Recreating the taste of KFC fried chicken at home is not only possible but can be a rewarding cooking experience. By following these steps and understanding the essence of their cooking techniques, you're well on your way to enjoying your fake KFC chicken that rivals the original. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, share this delightful meal with friends and family.

Can I use chicken breast for this recipe?

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Absolutely! Just remember to adjust cooking times as chicken breasts can dry out faster. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

How do I make the coating crispier?

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Ensure your oil is hot enough, don’t overcrowd the pot, and let the chicken rest post-frying to get rid of excess oil. Also, the double coating helps a lot.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

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No worries! Use what you have and adjust the amounts. Paprika, onion, and garlic powders are the key players for that KFC flavor profile.

Can I bake this recipe instead of frying?

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Yes, though the result won’t be exactly like KFC’s, you can bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy.