A plate of homemade KFC-style chicken with crispy coating and herbs.

Savor the Flavor: Authentic KFC-Style Chicken at Home

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Why Make This Recipe

Making KFC-style chicken at home is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite. You get to control the ingredients and make it just how you like it. Plus, it brings everyone together for a tasty meal. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner, this recipe will surely please your family and friends.

How to Make Authentic KFC-Style Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

  1. Start by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk for about 2 hours (or overnight if you can!). This helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme together.
  3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
  4. Take each chicken piece from buttermilk, let the excess drip off, then dip it in the egg, coating it well.
  5. Next, roll the chicken in the flour mixture until completely covered. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick better.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. You will need enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway.
  7. Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the pan. Do not overcrowd it!
  8. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  9. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

How to Serve Authentic KFC-Style Chicken

Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits. A drizzle of gravy or a few slices of pickles can add an extra touch. Everyone will enjoy digging in!

How to Store Authentic KFC-Style Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.

Tips to Make Authentic KFC-Style Chicken

  • For extra flavor, add more spices to the flour mixture, like cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken. You can test it by dropping a small amount of batter in; it should sizzle right away.
  • Let the chicken rest after frying for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside.

Variation

You can also try a spicy version by adding more cayenne pepper to the flour or using spicy seasoning blends. Another option is to bake the chicken for a healthier alternative. Simply place coated chicken in a greased baking dish and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-40 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time as they may take less time to cook.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing one cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just be sure to let it cool completely and then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for about 2 months in the freezer.

Now you are ready to savor the flavor of authentic KFC-style chicken right from your kitchen! Enjoy the cooking and, most importantly, the eating!

A plate of homemade KFC-style chicken with crispy coating and herbs.

KFC-Style Chicken

Enjoy homemade KFC-style chicken that is juicy, crispy, and full of flavor, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 whole whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk and vinegar/lemon juice mix.
For the Coating
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs Beaten.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Method
 

Marinating
  1. Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for about 2 hours (or overnight).
Preparing the Coating
  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
  2. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
Coating the Chicken
  1. Remove each chicken piece from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then dip in the beaten egg.
  2. Roll the chicken in the flour mixture until completely covered and place on a wire rack to rest for about 10 minutes.
Frying
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).
  4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding more spices to the flour mixture, like cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken.

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