Finger-Lickin’ Good: How to Make Homemade KFC Chicken

By
Mike Z
-
Fried chicken
Photo by Shardar Tarikul Islam on Unsplash

Craving the crispy, flavorful goodness of KFC chicken but prefer the comfort of your own kitchen? Look no further! We’re here to show you how to recreate the mouthwatering taste of Kentucky Fried Chicken right at home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken drumsticks
  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups of buttermilk
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Secret KFC-style Spice Blend:

(This blend makes extra seasoning that you can store for future use)

  • 2 tablespoons of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon celery salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ground mustard
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with half of the spices. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a delicious blend of flavors.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix all the spices listed for the secret KFC spice blend. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. You can store the leftover spice blend in an airtight container for future use in other recipes.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with the remaining secret KFC spice blend. Take the marinated chicken pieces and one at a time, coat them in the seasoned flour, making sure they are evenly coated.
  4. In a large, deep skillet or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
  6. Your homemade KFC chicken is now ready to be served! Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.