Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

You know that moment when you’re craving crispy, golden, perfectly seasoned fried chicken, but you don’t want to leave the comfort of your home? Well, get ready for a game-changer! This Copycat KFC Fried Chicken recipe is going to give you all the crispy, flavorful goodness you love from the iconic fast food chain—without stepping foot outside your kitchen. The crispy coating? Check. The tender, juicy chicken on the inside? Absolutely. The secret blend of herbs and spices? You’re about to find out. Trust me, once you sink your teeth into this, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen?

Why You’ll Love Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect fried chicken—crispy, juicy, and packed with all the right flavors—this is it. Here’s why this recipe is going to be your new fried chicken go-to:

Crispy Perfection

We’re talking about a coating that’s so crispy, it practically crackles when you bite into it. That irresistible crunch paired with the tender, juicy chicken inside? It’s like a match made in fried chicken heaven.

Flavor-Filled

The secret to KFC’s famous flavor is in the seasoning, and this recipe nails it. A blend of herbs and spices gives each bite that signature taste you crave. It’s savory, slightly spicy, and oh-so-delicious.

Juicy Inside

The real magic is in how the chicken stays so juicy and tender. By marinating the chicken beforehand, you’re locking in that moisture, so every piece is as juicy as it is crispy.

Homemade Goodness

Forget the drive-thru; with this recipe, you get that iconic fried chicken taste without any of the hassle. Plus, it’s made right in your own kitchen, so you can customize the flavor to your liking.

Versatile

This fried chicken works for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend feast, or a picnic. It’s always a hit with the whole family or at a gathering. You’ll be the star of any meal with this crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients for this finger-lickin’ fried chicken that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe:

Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces—drumsticks, thighs, breasts—work best. The skin helps hold in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy while it fries to crispy perfection.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is essential for marinating the chicken and tenderizing it. It helps the flour coating stick and gives the chicken a rich, tangy flavor.

Flour

The base for the crispy coating! You’ll use all-purpose flour to create that golden, crunchy shell we all love in fried chicken.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch helps make the coating extra crispy and light, giving you that satisfying crunch.

Baking Powder

A little bit of baking powder gives the coating a nice lift and lightness, ensuring it’s crispy on the outside without being too dense.

Seasonings

Here’s where the magic happens. This blend of herbs and spices will give you the signature KFC flavor:

• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried thyme
• Dried basil
• Ground black pepper
• Ground white pepper
• Salt
• Ground mustard
• Ground ginger
• Cayenne pepper (for a little kick!)

Eggs

Eggs are essential for helping the flour mixture stick to the chicken. You’ll dip the chicken in beaten eggs before coating it with the seasoned flour.

Oil

For frying, you’ll need a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil. This ensures a perfect fry without burning the coating.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the crispy, flavorful steps to make this Copycat KFC Fried Chicken:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk. This step is key to getting that juicy, tender chicken. Place your chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, and pour in enough buttermilk to cover them. Add a pinch of salt and a little black pepper. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. The longer, the better!

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all the seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, pepper, mustard, ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt. This is the magic blend that gives your chicken its KFC-like flavor!

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and let any excess liquid drip off. Then, dip each piece of chicken into the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s coated evenly. You want that thick, crunchy crust to form, so don’t be shy with the flour!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat about 2-3 inches of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small bit of flour—if it sizzles immediately, the oil’s ready.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken is perfectly crispy and golden, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy, juicy fried chicken hot and fresh! Pair it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite sides for a complete, KFC-inspired meal.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of Copycat KFC Fried Chicken (1 piece of fried chicken, typically a drumstick or thigh):

• Servings: 6 (based on 6 pieces of chicken)
• Calories per serving: 380
• Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 640mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Vitamin A: 4% of daily value
• Vitamin C: 2% of daily value
• Calcium: 4% of daily value
• Iron: 10% of daily value

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating time)
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 2 hours 40 minutes (including marinating time)

How to Serve Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many sides. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy are a classic pairing with fried chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich fried chicken.
• Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are a must for mopping up any gravy or dipping into a little honey.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to balance the fried chicken.

Additional Tips

• Don’t skip the marinating time: The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and locks in moisture, so give it enough time to soak in.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature is key to crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to monitor the heat.
• Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to make the chicken as spicy as you like.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this chicken in an air fryer?
A1: Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken in batches for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The results will be crispy, though not quite as crispy as deep-fried.

Q2: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?
A2: While boneless chicken breasts are a great option, they cook faster, so be sure to adjust the frying time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Q3: How can I keep the chicken crispy after frying?
A3: To keep the chicken crispy, place it on a wire rack instead of a paper towel-lined plate. This allows air to circulate around the chicken and keeps the coating crispy.

Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A4: Yes! Substitute the flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour to make the recipe gluten-free.

Q5: How long can I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore the crispiness.

Q6: Can I freeze this fried chicken?
A6: Yes! Once the chicken is fried, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q7: Can I fry the chicken in a deep fryer?
A7: Yes, you can use a deep fryer! Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken in batches, following the same cooking time.

Q8: What oil is best for frying chicken?
A8: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work great because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Q9: Can I make this recipe without cayenne pepper?
A9: Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the cayenne pepper, or use a pinch of paprika for a subtle warmth.

Q10: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A10: Add more cayenne pepper or even a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Copycat KFC Fried Chicken recipe brings the crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken you know and love right to your kitchen. With a perfect blend of spices, a crispy coating, and tender meat, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Print