KFC style fried chicken

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March 25, 2024 By Olivia in DINNER

Introduction:

Indulge in the irresistible taste of KFC-style fried chicken with our homemade recipe that brings the iconic flavor straight to your kitchen. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, this recipe captures the essence of the beloved fast-food favorite. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic treat or looking to impress your family and friends, our easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve that signature KFC taste in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

  • 8 pieces of chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a combination)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Create the Coating:
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Dip in Buttermilk:
    • Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
  4. Coat with Flour Mixture:
    • Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Make sure each piece is fully coated.
  5. Double Coating (Optional):
    • For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture a second time.
  6. Fry Until Golden Brown:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Drain and Serve:
    • Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving:

  1. Serve Hot and Crispy: KFC-style fried chicken is best enjoyed hot and crispy, straight from the fryer. Serve it immediately to preserve its crunchy exterior and juicy interior.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the fried chicken with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a touch of brightness to the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
  3. Pair with Classic Sides: Serve the fried chicken with classic sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, biscuits, and gravy for a complete KFC-inspired meal. These sides complement the savory flavors of the chicken and create a satisfying dining experience.

Storage:

  1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the cooled fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to maintain the chicken’s crispiness and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
  2. Reheating: To reheat the fried chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat individual pieces in the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crispy.
  3. Avoid Freezing: While you can freeze fried chicken, the texture may change upon thawing, and it may not be as crispy as when freshly fried. If freezing, place the cooled fried chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade KFC-style fried chicken remains crispy, flavorful, and enjoyable, whether served fresh or reheated as leftovers.

Variations of Recipe:

1. Spicy KFC-Style Fried Chicken:

  • Add extra heat to the coating mixture by increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. Serve with a side of spicy mayo or hot sauce for dipping.

2. Honey Garlic KFC-Style Fried Chicken:

  • Combine honey and minced garlic with melted butter to create a sweet and savory glaze. Toss the fried chicken in the glaze just before serving for a sticky and flavorful twist on the classic recipe.

3. Buttermilk Ranch KFC-Style Fried Chicken:

  • Mix ranch seasoning with the flour mixture for a tangy and herb-infused coating. Serve the fried chicken with a side of ranch dressing for dipping or drizzle ranch dressing over the chicken before serving.

4. Lemon Pepper KFC-Style Fried Chicken:

  • Add lemon zest and cracked black pepper to the flour mixture for a bright and zesty flavor profile. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fried chicken just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

5. BBQ KFC-Style Fried Chicken:

  • Brush the fried chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce while it’s still hot from the fryer. Serve with additional barbecue sauce for dipping or drizzle barbecue sauce over the chicken before serving for a sweet and smoky finish.

FAQs:

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

  • Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a variation of KFC-style fried chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than bone-in pieces.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

  • Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. The acidity of the buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and enhances its flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  • Yes, you can make gluten-free KFC-style fried chicken by using gluten-free flour and ensuring that all other ingredients, including the seasonings and buttermilk, are gluten-free.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

  • The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife, and the coating should be golden brown and crispy.

5. Can I reuse the frying oil?

  • While you can reuse frying oil, it’s best to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any debris and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reuse the oil for frying chicken or other foods within 1-2 weeks.

6. How do I prevent the coating from falling off the chicken during frying?

  • To ensure the coating adheres well to the chicken, make sure to shake off any excess buttermilk before dredging the chicken in the flour mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to help it stick.

7. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

  • While traditional KFC-style fried chicken is deep-fried for a crispy texture, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

  • Yes, you can make dairy-free KFC-style fried chicken by using a dairy-free alternative for the buttermilk, such as almond milk or soy milk, and substituting melted dairy-free margarine for the butter in the coating.

9. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

  • For extra crispy chicken, double-dip the chicken pieces in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying. Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) and fry the chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan.

10. Can I season the chicken with additional spices?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning of the chicken by adding your favorite spices such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or dried herbs to the flour mixture for a unique flavor twist.

Conclusion:

With its crispy golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, our KFC-style fried chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for the iconic fast-food favorite. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or as a crowd-pleasing party snack, this homemade version captures the essence of KFC’s legendary taste. Follow our simple recipe to experience the deliciousness of crispy fried chicken right in your own kitchen. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this mouthwatering dish!

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