Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade Crispy KFC Fried Chicken with this copycat recipe that will have your taste buds dancing. This iconic dish captures the essence of the Colonel’s secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, resulting in a perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior enveloping juicy, tender chicken pieces. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special celebration, this recipe brings the beloved taste of KFC right to your kitchen.

Crafting this delectable dish is a labor of love, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in achieving the signature flavor profile. From the aromatic thyme and basil to the warming ginger and the subtle kick of white pepper, every spice harmonizes to create an unforgettable dining experience. As you savor each crispy bite, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail and the culinary magic that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet feast.

As you embark on this culinary journey, don’t shy away from making this recipe your own. Adjust the spice levels to suit your palate, experiment with marinating times for added depth of flavor, or pair your Crispy KFC Fried Chicken with your favorite sides for a personalized touch. With each batch cooked to perfection, you’ll soon find yourself becoming the go-to chef for mouthwatering fried chicken that rivals the best of the best.

Quick Benefits

• Recreates the iconic KFC flavor profile with 11 herbs and spices
• Customizable spice levels to suit your taste preferences
• Creates restaurant-quality, crispy fried chicken at home
• Maintains maximum crispiness by reheating leftovers in the oven

Why You’ll Love This Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Recreates the iconic flavor of KFC fried chicken with a perfect blend of 11 herbs and spices
• Achieves restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen
• Customizable spice levels to suit your taste preferences
• Uses simple pantry ingredients for an authentic taste
• Creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside
• Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving comfort food
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated for continued enjoyment
• Versatile recipe that can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal
• Loved by family and friends, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings
• Tips and tricks provided for perfect frying results, including maintaining oil temperature and allowing the chicken to rest before frying

Ingredients for Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

Seasoned Flour Mix

• 4 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon celery salt
• 1/2 tablespoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon MSG (optional)
• 1/2 tablespoon ground thyme
• 3 tablespoons ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1/3 tablespoon oregano
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons garlic salt
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard powder
• 2/3 tablespoon salt

Chicken Preparation

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup full-fat buttermilk

Cooking Fat

• Vegetable shortening (preferred) or vegetable oil for frying

Pro Tips for Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

To achieve the perfect KFC fried chicken at home, ensure your oil temperature stays between 325-350°F for that ideal crispiness and juiciness. Letting the coated chicken rest for 15 minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better and results in a more flavorful and textured final product. For a personalized touch, experiment with the spice levels by adjusting the black and white pepper amounts for a spicier kick or enhancing the herbaceous notes with more thyme, basil, and oregano.

For the ultimate crispy texture, opt for vegetable shortening for frying, but vegetable oil can be a good substitute if needed. Marinating the chicken in the egg and buttermilk mixture not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances the overall flavor profile. To keep leftovers crispy, reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes and avoid the microwave. Serve your homemade KFC-style fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw for a truly comforting meal that rivals the original.

How to Make Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Slice the whole chicken into separate pieces.

Step 2: Step 02

In a large bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, salt, ground thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, mustard powder, paprika, garlic salt, ground ginger, white pepper, and optionally MSG.

Step 3: Step 03

In a separate bowl, mix the beaten egg and buttermilk. Dip the chicken pieces into the mixture and let them soak for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Dredge chicken pieces in seasoned flour after removing them from the buttermilk mixture. Allow coated pieces to rest for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Step 05

Preheat vegetable shortening or oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 175°C (350°F).

Step 6: Step 06

Cook the chicken pieces in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Step 7: Step 07

Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to remove excess oil. Serve with coleslaw or mashed potatoes.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed your homemade KFC-style fried chicken, storing any leftovers properly is essential to maintain its crispy texture and delicious flavor. To store the finished dish, place the leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid using the microwave as it can make the coating soggy. Instead, reheat the chicken in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes. For optimal results, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around each piece, which helps retain its crispiness.

To enhance the flavor of this iconic dish, consider customizing the seasoning to suit your preferences. For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of black and white peppers. If you enjoy a more herbaceous taste, adding extra thyme, basil, and oregano can elevate the dish. Some home cooks also incorporate a tablespoon of brown sugar into the flour mixture for a subtle sweetness that enhances the browning of the coating. Serve your fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits for the complete KFC experience, or pair it with other favorites like macaroni and cheese or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make a vegetarian version of this crispy fried “chicken,” consider using large cauliflower florets, tofu, or seitan as a substitute for the chicken pieces. Marinating these alternatives in the egg and buttermilk mixture as called for in the recipe can help enhance their flavor and tenderize the texture, providing a similar level of juiciness and tenderness.

If you are looking to adjust the spice level or personalize the flavor profile of this KFC-style fried chicken, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. For example, you could add smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, cayenne pepper for extra heat, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist. Don’t be afraid to tailor the seasoning to your taste preferences, such as reducing the salt content or omitting MSG if desired. By customizing the blend of spices, you can create a fried chicken dish that suits your palate perfectly while still capturing the essence of the classic KFC flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and creative serving suggestion, try turning this crispy KFC-style fried chicken into sliders! Cut the fried chicken into smaller pieces, sandwich them between soft slider buns, and top with pickles or a dollop of coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties, picnics, or a casual dinner with friends.

Another creative idea is to deconstruct the fried chicken and serve it as a build-your-own bowl. Start with a base of fluffy mashed potatoes or fragrant jasmine rice, then add pieces of the crispy fried chicken on top. Offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch dressing for a customizable and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

FAQs for Irresistibly Crispy Homemade Fried Chicken Recipe

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken works great for this method, though cooking time may be slightly shorter. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What’s the purpose of letting the coated chicken rest before frying?

To ensure maximum crispiness, let the chicken rest after coating it in the flour mixture for 15 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.

Can I use vegetable oil instead of vegetable shortening for frying?

Vegetable shortening is recommended for authentic results, but vegetable oil works well as an alternative. Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for best results.

How should I store leftover fried chicken?

Leftover fried chicken will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain maximum crispiness, reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes rather than using a microwave which will make the coating soggy. Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the entire piece.

Conclusion

Crispy KFC Fried Chicken is a labor of love that rewards you with that iconic flavor and texture. The blend of 11 herbs and spices creates a harmony of taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a fried chicken fanatic or just looking to impress your family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste buds.

Remember, achieving that perfect crunch and juiciness takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect on your first try. Each batch will bring you closer to mastering the art of making Crispy KFC Fried Chicken at home. As you savor every bite of this delicious dish, you’ll feel the satisfaction of creating something truly special in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, heat up that oil, and get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that’s better than takeout!