How to Make the Best Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe

Craving the finger-licking taste of KFC but want to enjoy it from your home? You’re in luck. Making a delicious homemade version is easier than you think.

Recreating KFC’s iconic flavor involves a secret blend of herbs and spices. This blend gives KFC its unique taste. With a simple, step-by-step guide, you can get that authentic flavor right in your kitchen.

By following our guide on how to make kfc chicken at home, you’ll enjoy this easy chicken recipe. It’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Key Takeaways

• Learn the secret blend of herbs and spices used in KFC.
• Discover a simple, step-by-step process to make KFC chicken at home.
• Enjoy a delicious and easy homemade chicken recipe.
• Recreate the iconic KFC flavor in your own kitchen.
• Satisfy your cravings with a finger-licking good meal.

The Secret Behind Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe

Trying to make KFC’s famous fried chicken at home starts with the 11 herbs and spices. This special mix is what makes KFC’s chicken taste so good. Figuring out this secret is key to making tasty homemade KFC chicken.

Even though the exact recipe is a secret, people have made a close version. They mix common spices and herbs in certain ways to get that KFC taste.

The 11 Herbs and Spices Blend

KFC’s Original Recipe has a blend of 11 herbs and spices. This mix has been a mystery for a long time. A popular copycat version includes:

• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon basil
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic salt
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon white pepper

Getting the right mix of these ingredients is important. You can adjust the amounts to your liking. But the key is finding the right balance of flavors.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

Other than the 11 herbs and spices, some other ingredients are key for a true KFC taste. These include:

Ingredient	Purpose
Chicken pieces	Use a mix of legs, thighs, wings, and breasts for variety.
Buttermilk	For marinating, to tenderize and add moisture.
All-purpose flour	The base for the coating, providing crunch.
Vegetable oil	For frying, to achieve that crispy exterior.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make homemade KFC chicken, you’ll need some basic tools and equipment:

• A large bowl for marinating the chicken
• A separate bowl or plate for the flour coating
• A heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer for frying
• Tongs or a slotted spoon for handling the chicken during frying
• Paper towels for draining excess oil

Having these ingredients and tools ready makes the process easier. It helps you make perfect, crispy KFC-style fried chicken at home.

Preparing Your Chicken for the Perfect Crispy Coating

Great fried chicken needs a crispy coating and juicy inside. This starts with the right preparation steps. Paying attention to detail is key.

Start by picking the right chicken pieces. For a true KFC taste, use legs, thighs, wings, and breasts. Make sure the pieces are about the same size for even cooking.

Choosing and Cutting Chicken Pieces

When choosing chicken pieces, think about size and type. A whole chicken cut into pieces is best for authenticity. If using pre-cut pieces, they should be the same size for even cooking.

Cutting your chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. You can buy pre-cut chicken or cut a whole chicken yourself. Use sharp knives and follow the meat’s natural lines when cutting.

Buttermilk Brining Process

The buttermilk brining process makes fried chicken tender and juicy. Soaking the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes it and adds flavor. Let the chicken sit in buttermilk in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

The buttermilk’s acidity breaks down the chicken’s proteins. This makes the chicken tender and juicy, just like KFC.

Mixing and Applying the Signature Flour Coating

Mixing the signature flour coating blends flour with herbs and spices. This mix gives KFC chicken its unique flavor and crispy coating. Combine flour, salt, and spices in a bowl. Adjust the amounts to taste, but make sure the mix is well combined.

Applying the flour coating is the last step before frying. Remove the chicken from buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Then, coat the chicken evenly in the flour mix. For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken in buttermilk again and then in the flour mix a second time.

Frying Techniques for Southern-Style Crispy Chicken

Frying is an art, and Southern-style crispy chicken is no exception. To get that perfect crunch and flavor, mastering a few techniques is key.

Oil Selection and Temperature Control

Choosing the right oil is vital. Opt for oils with a high smoke point like peanut or avocado oil. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly without burning. Temperature control is equally important. Aim for a temperature between 350°F and 375°F. Use a thermometer to keep this range, for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Double-Dredging Method for Extra Crunch

The double-dredging method gives you an extra crunchy exterior. It involves dredging your chicken in flour, then in a liquid like buttermilk or eggs, and back in flour. Start by mixing your flour with spices. Dredge your chicken, dip in the liquid, and coat again in flour. This method ensures a crispy coating that sticks well to the chicken.

Resting and Serving Your Homemade KFC Chicken

After frying, let your chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This step allows excess oil to drip off, keeping it crispy. Serve your homemade KFC chicken hot, with mashed potatoes or coleslaw on the side, for a satisfying meal.

By using these frying techniques, you’ll make delicious Southern-style crispy chicken. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Your homemade KFC chicken will surely be a hit.

Conclusion

Now you know how to make a tasty homemade KFC chicken recipe. You can enjoy great food at home. By using the right herbs and spices, you’ll make a copycat KFC recipe that everyone will love.

With a bit of practice, your homemade KFC chicken will be a hit. Try out different seasonings to make it your own. But keep the original taste in mind.

Making your own KFC-style chicken saves money and is super satisfying. You’ll get to enjoy crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken. So, go ahead and make your own KFC chicken!

FAQ

What is the secret to KFC’s finger-licking taste?

KFC’s secret lies in its 11 herbs and spices. You can make this flavor at home. Just mix common spices and herbs together.

Can I use other types of milk instead of buttermilk for brining?

Buttermilk is great for flavor and tenderness. But, you can use a mix of milk and vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

What is the best oil for frying homemade KFC chicken?

Use a neutral-tasting oil like peanut or vegetable oil. They have a high smoke point. This ensures a crispy exterior without burning the oil.

How do I achieve the perfect crispy coating on my homemade KFC chicken?

For a crispy coating, follow the double-dredging method. Dredge the chicken in flour twice, with a break in between. This creates a crunchy outside and juicy inside.

Can I bake my homemade KFC chicken instead of frying it?

Baking is healthier but won’t give you the same crispiness as frying. For a crispy exterior, bake on a wire rack at 400°F.

How do I store leftover homemade KFC chicken?

Cool the chicken completely, then store it in an airtight container. It keeps for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until crispy.

Can I make homemade KFC chicken ahead of time?

Prepare the chicken and flour coating ahead. But fry just before serving for the best crispiness. Marinate in buttermilk for extra flavor.