If you’re craving that irresistible crunch and flavor of KFC chicken but feel clueless in the kitchen, you’re in the right place.
This guide is all about turning you from a cooking newbie into someone who can whip up a batch of finger-licking good chicken right at home.
I’ll walk you through each step, from marinating to frying, ensuring you get all the insider tips to nail that perfect blend of crispy and juicy.
Let’s get started on this culinary adventure and bring the taste of KFC into your kitchen with ease.
Understanding KFC-Style Chicken
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to understand what makes KFC chicken so special.
It’s all about the crispy coating, tender and juicy meat, and, most importantly, the secret blend of herbs and spices.
While the original KFC recipe remains a closely guarded secret, many have speculated and created very close replicas that capture the essence of KFC’s addictive flavor.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 people, providing each with a couple of pieces of chicken.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 8 pieces of chicken (a mix of thighs, drumsticks, and wings works best)
- 500 ml buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Flour Coating:
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1½ teaspoons dried thyme
- 1½ teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon white pepper (optional for extra heat)
Other:
- Canola oil, for deep frying
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Shallow dish or plate for flour mixture
- Kitchen tongs
- Deep fryer or large, deep cooking pot
- Cooling rack and baking sheet
Method
1. Marinating the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk with 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Submerge the chicken pieces in the mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Preparing the Flour Coating
- In a shallow dish, mix together all the flour coating ingredients until well combined.
3. Coating the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.
- For an extra crispy layer, you can double-dip by briefly dunking the coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then again in the flour.
4. Frying the Chicken
- Heat your oil in a deep fryer or deep cooking pot to 175°C.
- Carefully place a few pieces of chicken in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
- Fry for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Use kitchen tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and drain on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to keep it crispy.
5. Serving
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot and enjoy the homemade KFC-style feast!
Tips for Success
- Marinade Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
- Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy without absorbing too much oil.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil’s temperature, leading to soggy chicken.
- Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after frying ensures it remains juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside.
KFC Chicken Side Dishes
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort side, blending smoothly with butter and cream for a rich, velvety texture.
They provide a soft, mild counterpoint to the crispy chicken, absorbing its flavors and adding a comforting, homely touch to the meal.
2. Coleslaw
A classic coleslaw, with its crisp shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Its cool, crunchy texture and zesty flavor balance the richness of the fried chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
3. Corn on the Cob
Buttery corn on the cob, with its sweet and juicy kernels, adds a touch of summer to the meal.
Grilling the corn can enhance its natural sweetness, providing a smoky flavor that complements the spices of the chicken beautifully.
4. Macaroni and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a heartwarming side that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken.
Its gooey, comforting texture and rich flavor make it a favorite, especially for those who love a decadent cheese pull with every forkful.
5. Green Bean Almondine
Green bean almondine brings a touch of elegance to the table, with tender green beans tossed in butter and garnished with slivered almonds.
This dish offers a crunchy, nutty contrast to the chicken, with a hint of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
6. Biscuits
Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up any leftover juices or gravy.
Their soft, crumbly texture and golden crust offer a comforting, homemade touch that pairs seamlessly with the crispy chicken, creating a satisfying, hearty meal.
7. Potato Salad
A zesty potato salad, with its creamy dressing and a mix of mustard and mayonnaise, offers a cool, tangy side that complements the spiciness of the chicken.
With additions like crunchy celery and fresh herbs, it adds both texture and a burst of fresh flavors to the meal.
Creating KFC-style chicken at home is a rewarding experience, especially when you see the delight on the faces of your friends and family as they take their first bite.
This guide is designed to simplify the cooking process, making it accessible for those new to the kitchen while delivering delicious results.
Enjoy the cooking journey and the delicious chicken that awaits at the end!