Learn How To Cook Fried Chicken Like Kfc: The Secret Recipe Revealed!

Craving that irresistible KFC-style fried chicken? With our comprehensive guide, you can recreate the iconic flavor and crunch right in your own kitchen. Follow these simple steps to achieve restaurant-quality fried chicken that will leave you finger-lickin’ good.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
• Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Make the Seasoning Mix

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and stir to coat.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.

4. Coat the Chicken

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and 1/2 cup of buttermilk.
• Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dip it into the egg mixture, then into the seasoned flour mixture.
• Make sure to coat the chicken evenly.

5. Fry the Chicken

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
• Fry the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain and Season

• Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
• Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the fried chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect KFC-Style Chicken:

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Double-coat the chicken for extra crispiness.
• Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours to tenderize it.
• Fry the chicken at the correct temperature to ensure even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the pot when frying to prevent soggy chicken.
• Season the chicken after frying for optimal flavor absorption.

Variations:

• For extra heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• For a sweeter flavor, add 1/4 cup of honey to the buttermilk marinade.
• For a smoky flavor, sprinkle smoked paprika into the seasoning mix.

The Secret to the KFC Flavor

The secret to KFC’s signature flavor lies in their blend of 11 herbs and spices. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, our seasoning mix approximates the iconic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use boneless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be shorter. Fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

• How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. However, 4-8 hours is sufficient for optimal flavor absorption.

• What is the best way to store fried chicken?

Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Can I freeze fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze fried chicken for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed above.

• How do I make a dipping sauce?

For a simple dipping sauce, combine equal parts mayonnaise and ketchup. Add a dash of garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor.