Here’s a complete Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken recipe that captures the crispy, flavorful magic of the original — with a homemade twist:
Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
Chicken:
- 10 pieces of bone-in chicken (drumsticks and thighs, skin-on)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for brining)
- Water (to cover chicken)
Breading & Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 teaspoons salt
Wet Mix:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
Instructions:
1. Brine the Chicken (optional but recommended):
- Soak chicken pieces in a bowl of cold water with 1 tablespoon of salt for 3–4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and all the spices and herbs. Mix well.
3. Make the Wet Mix:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the buttermilk.
4. Dredge the Chicken:
- Dip each piece of chicken into the wet mix, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
- For extra crunch: double dip — repeat the egg and flour coating.
5. Heat the Oil:
- In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 325–350°F (165–175°C).
- Make sure the oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
6. Fry the Chicken:
- Fry 3–4 pieces at a time, without crowding.
- Cook for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
7. Serve Hot:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain crispiness.
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