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Classic Crispy Chicken

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This copycat KFC recipe brings the famous crispy coating home. Chicken pieces are marinated in buttermilk, then coated in flour seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and spices before being fried to golden perfection.

Casey
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:06:01 GMT
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A close-up image of a bowl filled with crispy fried chicken wings. Pin it
A close-up image of a bowl filled with crispy fried chicken wings. | cookingwithcasey.com

I've been perfecting this KFC-style fried chicken recipe for years and my family swears it's better than the original. The secret is in that perfectly seasoned crust that stays amazingly crispy while keeping the chicken underneath so tender and juicy. Every time I make this, the aroma fills the whole house and everyone comes running to the kitchen.

The Best Comfort Food

Making this chicken at home means you get all that incredible KFC flavor but even better because it's fresh from your kitchen. The buttermilk marinade makes every bite super tender and that seasoned coating is absolutely addictive. My kids beg for this on weekends and it's become our go-to for family gatherings.

Your Shopping List

  • Chicken: I usually grab a whole chicken and cut it up but any pieces work great.
  • Buttermilk: This is the secret to that amazing tenderness.
  • Egg: Helps all those tasty seasonings stick to your chicken.
  • All-purpose flour: Creates that perfect crispy coating.
  • KFC spice blend: My special mix of paprika garlic powder white pepper and all those secret herbs and spices.
  • Vegetable oil: For that perfect golden fry.

Kitchen Magic Time

Start with a Soak:
Mix your buttermilk and egg then let those chicken pieces take a nice long bath in it overnight if you can.
Create the Coating:
Mix up your flour and all those amazing spices then coat each piece of chicken really well.
Get Frying:
Heat your oil to 350°F use a thermometer to keep it steady. You want enough oil to give your chicken a good swim.
Cook to Golden:
Fry your chicken in batches about 12-15 minutes until it's beautifully golden and cooked through.
Keep it Hot:
Pop finished pieces in a warm oven while you finish frying the rest.

My Secret Tips

  • Overnight is Best: Let that chicken soak in buttermilk as long as you can.
  • Pat it Dry: Getting rid of extra moisture helps that coating stick better.
  • Watch Your Heat: Keep an eye on that oil temperature it's crucial for perfect chicken.
  • Stay Warm: Use your oven to keep everything crispy until serving time.
A close-up of a bowl filled with golden, crispy fried chicken, with soft bokeh lights in the background. Pin it
A close-up of a bowl filled with golden, crispy fried chicken, with soft bokeh lights in the background. | cookingwithcasey.com

Saving for Later

Your chicken will stay good in the fridge for about 3 days in a sealed container. When you're ready to eat reheat it in a hot oven about 400°F for 15-20 minutes to bring back that crunch. You can even freeze it wrapped in foil for up to 3 months just thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make buttermilk at home?

Yes, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit 5 minutes before using.

→ Why is my coating falling off?

Pat chicken dry after marinating and shake off excess flour. Also avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers oil temperature.

→ How long can I store the chicken?

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

→ Is MSG necessary?

No, it's optional. While it adds authentic flavor, the chicken will still be delicious without it.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer - internal temperature should reach 165°F, and coating should be golden brown.

KFC Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy fried chicken made with a special blend of herbs and spices to recreate the classic KFC taste at home.

Prep Time
40 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Tasty Snacks

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 pieces)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces.
02 1 cup buttermilk.
03 1 large egg, beaten.
04 2 cups all-purpose flour.
05 1/4 cup paprika.
06 2 tablespoons garlic powder.
07 2 tablespoons white pepper.
08 1 tablespoon celery salt.
09 1 tablespoon black pepper.
10 1 tablespoon dry mustard.
11 2 teaspoons kosher salt.
12 2 teaspoons onion powder.
13 2 teaspoons dried thyme.
14 2 teaspoons dried basil.
15 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano.
16 1 teaspoon ground ginger.
17 1/2 teaspoon MSG (optional).
18 Vegetable oil for frying.

Instructions

Step 01

Cut chicken into 8 pieces.

Step 02

Mix buttermilk and egg. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.

Step 03

Combine flour with all seasonings in a large bowl.

Step 04

Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or Dutch oven.

Step 05

Coat chicken in seasoned flour, shake off excess.

Step 06

Fry 3-4 pieces at a time, 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 07

Keep finished pieces warm in a 175°F oven while frying remaining chicken.

Step 08

Final internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Notes

  1. This copycat recipe recreates KFC's famous fried chicken with a special blend of herbs and spices. The key is marinating in buttermilk and using the right spice mix.

Tools You'll Need

  • Deep fryer or Dutch oven.
  • Deep fry thermometer.
  • Instant-read thermometer.
  • Baking sheet with wire rack.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (buttermilk).
  • Wheat (flour).
  • Eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 439
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 32 g
  • Protein: 24 g