KFC Chicken Recipe Revealed: Make It at Home

For many, the taste of KFC's fried chicken holds a special place in their fast-food memories. The secret blend of 11 herbs and spices has intrigued food enthusiasts for decades. Now, imagine being able to make that iconic chicken at home. Here, we'll unravel the speculated recipe, detailing the process so you can prepare KFC-style fried chicken for yourself or your loved ones.

What You'll Need

To replicate KFC's fried chicken, you'll need some common ingredients:

• Chicken: The choice between whole chicken pieces or drumsticks is up to you. Most commonly, drumsticks and thighs are used for their flavor and juiciness.
• Marinade: Buttermilk or a buttermilk substitute, salt, and pepper.
• Coating: A mix of flour and the magical blend of spices.
• Spice Blend: This is where the secrecy comes into play. Though KFC's exact recipe is closely guarded, a commonly cited blend includes:
  • 2/3 tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon thyme
  • 1/2 tablespoon basil
  • 1/3 tablespoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon celery salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried mustard
  • 4 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 3 tablespoons white pepper
• Egg Wash: Eggs beaten with a little water or milk.
• Oil: Preferably peanut oil for deep frying, but any high-smoke-point oil will do.

🔖 Note: While this list contains the key ingredients for the famous coating, KFC's exact blend might differ slightly.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Here's how to make your own KFC fried chicken:

1. Marinate: Place your chicken pieces in a bowl with enough buttermilk to cover them. Add a generous amount of salt and black pepper, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients for the spice mix with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. Ensure everything is thoroughly mixed to avoid clumps.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: Whisk eggs with a bit of water or milk in another bowl. This will help the flour mixture stick to the chicken better.
4. Breading Process:
   1. Dip each piece of marinated chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it's well coated.
   2. Roll the chicken in the flour mixture. Make sure it's evenly coated.
   3. For a more authentic texture, double dip the chicken by returning it to the egg wash and then again into the flour.
5. Heat the Oil: Fill a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with oil to a depth of about 3 inches. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C).
6. Fry the Chicken: Gently place the chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches if necessary, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), approximately 15-18 minutes.
7. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

💡 Note: Overcrowding the frying oil can lower the temperature, leading to greasy chicken. Maintain the oil temperature for the crispiest results.

Tips for the Perfect KFC-Style Chicken

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before frying to avoid oil temperature drops.
• Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before frying; this helps the coating adhere better.
• Keep an eye on the oil temperature, adjusting as needed to maintain the frying temperature.

🔎 Note: This process can be adapted for an air fryer, just remember to spray the breaded chicken with oil before cooking for a crispy exterior.

The process of making KFC-style fried chicken at home brings the restaurant experience into your kitchen. It's not just about replicating a taste; it's about understanding the technique, the flavor profiles, and the joy of cooking a beloved fast-food item yourself. With the right preparation, patience, and a bit of culinary curiosity, you can impress your guests or indulge in this finger-licking goodness whenever you desire. Remember, practice makes perfect, and your version might even surpass your expectations!

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

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Yes, while chicken is traditional, you can experiment with other meats like pork or even vegetables for a vegetarian version, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

How do I store leftover fried chicken?

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Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days.

What’s the best oil for deep frying?

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High smoke point oils like peanut oil are ideal for deep frying as they can withstand high temperatures without smoking or burning. Vegetable, canola, or sunflower oils are also good alternatives.

Can I make this chicken without buttermilk?

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Yes, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will give you a similar result to buttermilk.