Crispy, Secret Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe Just Like The Colonel

My kitchen adventure with homemade KFC chicken began on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I craved something crispy and delicious.

Memories of childhood fast-food trips sparked my culinary creativity.

Recreating those familiar flavors became my delightful challenge.

Colonel sanders’ secret recipe inspired me to experiment with spices and technique.

Each ingredient promised a potential breakthrough in my quest for the perfect crispy coating.

Aromas of paprika, garlic powder, and herbs filled my kitchen with anticipation.

Let’s uncover the magic that turns simple chicken into an irresistible feast that will make everyone ask for seconds.

KFC Chicken Copy That’s Crispy and Better at Home

• Recreate Restaurant Magic at Home: Dive into a DIY KFC-style chicken adventure that brings professional flavor right to your kitchen.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up this crispy chicken recipe in just a few simple steps, requiring minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients you likely already have.
• Flavor Explosion Technique: Master a perfectly seasoned coating that delivers incredibly crispy, golden-brown chicken with a mouthwatering blend of herbs and spices that rival any restaurant version.
• Time-Saving Marination Hack: Boost chicken tenderness by marinating in buttermilk, which not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort.

Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe – What You’ll Use

• Buttermilk: Tenderizes chicken and adds tangy flavor, look for full-fat version for best results.
• Salt: Enhances overall seasoning and flavor profile.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates crispy and crunchy exterior for chicken.
• Black Pepper, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Thyme, Basil: Complex spice blend providing deep, rich flavor profiles.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds subtle heat and warmth.
• Baking Powder: Helps create extra crispy coating by breaking down protein structure.

• Vegetable Oil: Provides medium-high heat cooking medium for deep frying chicken, neutral flavor works best.
• Chicken Pieces: Preferably bone-in, skin-on for maximum juiciness and traditional KFC style.

KFC Chicken Copycat Frying Directions

Step 1: Prepare Buttermilk Marinade

Grab a large bowl and mix buttermilk with salt.

Submerge chicken pieces completely in the mixture.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to infuse deep flavor and tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Mix Magical Coating Blend

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Thyme
• Basil
• Cayenne pepper
• Baking powder

Whisk these ingredients until they form a perfectly seasoned flour mixture.

Step 3: Heat Cooking Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large skillet.

Bring the oil temperature to 350°F.

Ensure there’s enough oil to fully submerge chicken pieces.

Step 4: Coat Chicken Pieces

Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade.

Thoroughly dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture.

Press coating firmly to create an even, thick layer that will become wonderfully crispy.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Gently place coated chicken into hot oil.

Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy exterior.

Chicken is ready when internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy for maximum deliciousness.

Expert Tips for Homemade KFC Chicken

• Let chicken soak in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse deep, rich flavors into every bite.
• Press seasoned flour mixture firmly onto chicken to create a thick, crispy outer layer that locks in moisture and delivers that signature KFC crunch.
• Maintain consistent 350°F oil temperature to ensure perfectly golden, crispy exterior without burning or undercooking the chicken.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet by frying chicken pieces in smaller batches, which helps maintain oil temperature and allows even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing safe and juicy results every time.

Homemade KFC Chicken Reheat Plan

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in freezer bags. Frozen chicken stays fresh for up to 4 months.
• Preheat to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Set temperature to 375°F. Arrange chicken in single layer, cook for 3-4 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even heating and crispy exterior.

What to Eat With KFC Copycat Chicken

• Savor with Southern Sides: Pair the crispy homemade KFC chicken with creamy coleslaw, which balances the spicy coating with its cool, tangy crunch.
• Quench with Refreshing Drinks: Complement the rich, savory chicken with an ice-cold sweet tea or a light, crisp pilsner beer that cuts through the heavy fried texture.
• Classic Comfort Combo: Serve alongside fluffy buttermilk biscuits and creamy mashed potatoes to create a nostalgic Southern-style meal that echoes the chicken's hearty flavors.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a sparkling rosé or a light Pinot Noir to enhance the chicken's bold seasonings while providing a subtle, elegant contrast.

Homemade KFC Chicken Copycat Versions

• Gluten-Free Crispy Chicken: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Swap regular flour with crushed pork rinds or almond flour to reduce carbohydrates and maintain crispy texture.
• Spicy Herb Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a fiery kick.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, for a healthier alternative to deep-frying.

FAQs

• Why use buttermilk for marinating chicken?

Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken by breaking down proteins, making the meat more soft and juicy. Its acidic nature also helps the seasoning penetrate deeper into the chicken, enhancing overall flavor.

• What's the purpose of adding baking powder to the flour mixture?

Baking powder helps create a crispier exterior by absorbing moisture and promoting better browning. It also helps the coating become lighter and more crunchy, giving the chicken that signature KFC-style crisp texture.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat, eliminating any risk of foodborne illness.

• Can I reuse the oil after frying?

It’s best to strain the oil and store it properly if you plan to reuse it. However, each time you reuse oil, its quality diminishes, so it’s recommended to replace it after 2-3 uses to maintain the best flavor and frying performance.

Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory Kentucky Fried Chicken brings southern comfort to your kitchen with its signature crispy, golden-brown coating. Secret spices and expert marinating techniques create an irresistible flavor profile that beckons you to indulge in this classic American comfort meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Buttermilk:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (or 8 pieces of chicken)
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) buttermilk

Flour and Spice Mix:

• 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) salt
• 1 tablespoon (6 grams) black pepper
• 1 tablespoon (6.8 grams) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (1 gram) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (1 gram) dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams) baking powder

Frying:

• Vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Create a zesty buttermilk bath by combining buttermilk and salt in a spacious mixing vessel. Submerge chicken pieces completely, ensuring thorough coverage, and refrigerate for a minimum of two hours or overnight to enhance flavor penetration and tenderize the meat.
2. Craft a robust seasoning blend by whisking together flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, cayenne pepper, and baking powder until uniformly integrated.
3. Prepare a deep frying station by heating vegetable oil in a sturdy skillet or deep fryer to precisely 350°F, maintaining sufficient depth to fully immerse chicken pieces.
4. Extract each marinated chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then meticulously coat with the seasoned flour mixture. Press firmly to create a dense, even layer of spiced coating that will transform into a crispy exterior.
5. Gently lower coated chicken into the sizzling oil, working in controlled batches to prevent temperature reduction. Rotate pieces periodically to ensure uniform golden-brown coloration and consistent cooking.
6. Monitor chicken carefully, frying approximately 12-15 minutes until the exterior achieves a deep amber crispness and internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating complete and safe cooking.
7. Remove fried chicken using a slotted utensil and transfer to an absorbent paper towel-lined surface to eliminate excess oil. Allow brief resting before serving piping hot for maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, ensuring the buttermilk helps break down proteins.
• Control oil temperature precisely with a cooking thermometer to prevent burning and achieve perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior.
• Pat chicken completely dry before coating to help seasoned flour adhere more effectively and create extra crispy texture.
• Experiment with spice blend by adjusting cayenne pepper for desired heat level or adding smoked paprika for deeper flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg