Copycat KFC Fried Chicken Crispy and Flavorful Recipe

by
Here’s what you need for the best Copycat KFC Fried Chicken: - Chicken pieces: 10 (preferably legs and thighs) - Buttermilk: 2 cups - All-purpose flour: 2 cups - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Vegetable oil (for frying) These ingredients bring out the flavor and crunch that everyone loves. The buttermilk makes the chicken tender and juicy. The mix of seasonings adds that famous taste. When you combine these ingredients, you create magic in your kitchen. You can find the Full Recipe for this crispy delight later in this article. Enjoy cooking! Marinating chicken in buttermilk is key to great flavor. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. I recommend marinating for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This extra time helps the flavors soak in deeply. Mixing the dry ingredients correctly is important for the perfect coating. In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and basil. Whisk until everything blends well. For a crunchy texture, make sure to use fresh flour. After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Let any extra liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Press firmly to coat well. Tap off any extra flour before setting the chicken aside. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Keep a thermometer handy to check the temperature. Fry the chicken in batches. This prevents overcrowding and keeps the oil hot. Cook each piece for about 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This helps drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to stay crispy. Your fried chicken is now ready! Enjoy it with your favorite sides and sauces. To get that perfect crispiness, you need to pay attention to the frying temperature. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy. Fry each piece for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway to ensure even cooking. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C). One common mistake is overcrowding the frying pan. When you add too much chicken, the oil cools down. This can lead to soggy chicken. Fry in batches instead. Another mistake is skipping the marination step. Marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 4 hours in the fridge. Want to boost the flavor? Add more spices to your mix. Try 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat or 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky taste. You can also mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a fresh twist. Adjust the cayenne pepper to match your spice level. This way, you can make your fried chicken truly your own. For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this dish a hit! {{image_4}} To make your fried chicken spicy, you can adjust the cayenne pepper. Start with 1/2 teaspoon, then add more if you want more heat. You can also add hot sauce to the buttermilk. This will give your chicken a nice kick and extra flavor. If you prefer using an air fryer, you can modify the recipe. First, prepare the chicken as usual. Then, place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them at 400°F for about 25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. This method gives you a crispy result with less oil. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure you mix well to keep the flavor and texture. You might need to adjust the amount of flour to get the right coating consistency. To keep your leftover chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. If you do not have one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate the chicken within two hours of cooking to avoid bacteria growth. Leftover fried chicken can last up to four days in the fridge. However, it is best to eat it sooner for the best taste. For reheating fried chicken, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. If you want to keep the coating crispy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also reheat chicken in an air fryer for a crispy finish. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 8-10 minutes. To freeze cooked chicken, first let it cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Fried chicken can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat the chicken using the oven or air fryer for the best results. This way, you maintain its crispy goodness. The secret lies in the right blend of spices and a good marination. KFC’s crispy coating uses a mix of flour, spices, and buttermilk. For this recipe, you need: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps keep it moist. This combination of flavors creates that tasty crunch you love. Yes, you can use various chicken cuts. Legs and thighs work best for frying. Breasts can also be used, but they cook faster, so adjust your time. Here are some ideas: - Chicken thighs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes. - Chicken legs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes. - Chicken breasts: Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure all pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Frying chicken takes time based on the cut size. Here’s a breakdown: - Small pieces (like wings): 8-10 minutes. - Medium pieces (like breasts): 8-10 minutes. - Large pieces (like thighs and legs): 12-15 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s safe to eat. Classic Southern sides are perfect with fried chicken. Here are my top picks: - Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, it adds a refreshing touch. - Cornbread: Slightly sweet, it complements the savory chicken. These sides will enhance your meal and make it feel complete. For the full recipe, check the main article! You've learned how to make crispy, flavorful fried chicken, just like KFC. From marinating in buttermilk to the frying tips, each step matters. Remember, don’t rush the marination; it’s key to moist chicken. Avoid common mistakes, like overcrowding the pan, for perfect results every time. Feel free to experiment with variations that suit your taste, such as the air fryer method. With proper storage and reheating techniques, your leftovers can still be delicious. Enjoy this easy recipe and make it your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving the crispy, flavorful taste of KFC fried chicken? You’re not alone! In this post, I will share an easy copycat recipe that captures all the taste without needing a secret ingredient list. From marinating chicken in buttermilk to achieving the perfect crispy coating, I’ll guide you step-by-step. Get ready to impress your family and friends with homemade fried chicken that rivals the Colonel’s famous dish! Let’s dive in!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for the best Copycat KFC Fried Chicken:

– Chicken pieces: 10 (preferably legs and thighs)

– Buttermilk: 2 cups

– All-purpose flour: 2 cups

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Vegetable oil (for frying)

These ingredients bring out the flavor and crunch that everyone loves. The buttermilk makes the chicken tender and juicy. The mix of seasonings adds that famous taste. When you combine these ingredients, you create magic in your kitchen.

You can find the Full Recipe for this crispy delight later in this article. Enjoy cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating chicken in buttermilk is key to great flavor. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. I recommend marinating for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This extra time helps the flavors soak in deeply.

Preparing the Coating

Mixing the dry ingredients correctly is important for the perfect coating. In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and basil. Whisk until everything blends well. For a crunchy texture, make sure to use fresh flour.

Dredging and Frying the Chicken

After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Let any extra liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Press firmly to coat well. Tap off any extra flour before setting the chicken aside.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Keep a thermometer handy to check the temperature. Fry the chicken in batches. This prevents overcrowding and keeps the oil hot. Cook each piece for about 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Once cooked, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This helps drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to stay crispy. Your fried chicken is now ready! Enjoy it with your favorite sides and sauces.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Crispiness

To get that perfect crispiness, you need to pay attention to the frying temperature. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy. Fry each piece for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway to ensure even cooking. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding the frying pan. When you add too much chicken, the oil cools down. This can lead to soggy chicken. Fry in batches instead. Another mistake is skipping the marination step. Marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 4 hours in the fridge.

Enhancing Flavor

Want to boost the flavor? Add more spices to your mix. Try 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat or 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky taste. You can also mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a fresh twist. Adjust the cayenne pepper to match your spice level. This way, you can make your fried chicken truly your own.

For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this dish a hit!

Variations

Spicy Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

To make your fried chicken spicy, you can adjust the cayenne pepper. Start with 1/2 teaspoon, then add more if you want more heat. You can also add hot sauce to the buttermilk. This will give your chicken a nice kick and extra flavor.

Air Fryer Option

If you prefer using an air fryer, you can modify the recipe. First, prepare the chicken as usual. Then, place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them at 400°F for about 25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. This method gives you a crispy result with less oil.

Gluten-Free Alternative

For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure you mix well to keep the flavor and texture. You might need to adjust the amount of flour to get the right coating consistency.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Chicken

To keep your leftover chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. If you do not have one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate the chicken within two hours of cooking to avoid bacteria growth. Leftover fried chicken can last up to four days in the fridge. However, it is best to eat it sooner for the best taste.

Reheating Guidelines

For reheating fried chicken, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. If you want to keep the coating crispy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also reheat chicken in an air fryer for a crispy finish. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 8-10 minutes.

Freezing Fried Chicken

To freeze cooked chicken, first let it cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Fried chicken can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat the chicken using the oven or air fryer for the best results. This way, you maintain its crispy goodness.

FAQs

What is the secret to KFC’s crispy coating?

The secret lies in the right blend of spices and a good marination. KFC’s crispy coating uses a mix of flour, spices, and buttermilk. For this recipe, you need:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps keep it moist. This combination of flavors creates that tasty crunch you love.

Can I use different chicken cuts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various chicken cuts. Legs and thighs work best for frying. Breasts can also be used, but they cook faster, so adjust your time. Here are some ideas:

– Chicken thighs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes.

– Chicken legs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes.

– Chicken breasts: Cook for about 8-10 minutes.

Make sure all pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

How long does it take to fry chicken?

Frying chicken takes time based on the cut size. Here’s a breakdown:

– Small pieces (like wings): 8-10 minutes.

– Medium pieces (like breasts): 8-10 minutes.

– Large pieces (like thighs and legs): 12-15 minutes.

Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s safe to eat.

What sides pair well with Copycat KFC Fried Chicken?

Classic Southern sides are perfect with fried chicken. Here are my top picks:

– Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, it adds a refreshing touch.

– Cornbread: Slightly sweet, it complements the savory chicken.

These sides will enhance your meal and make it feel complete. For the full recipe, check the main article!

You’ve learned how to make crispy, flavorful fried chicken, just like KFC. From marinating in buttermilk to the frying tips, each step matters. Remember, don’t rush the marination; it’s key to moist chicken. Avoid common mistakes, like overcrowding the pan, for perfect results every time.

Feel free to experiment with variations that suit your taste, such as the air fryer method. With proper storage and reheating techniques, your leftovers can still be delicious. Enjoy this easy recipe and make it your own!

Here’s what you need for the best Copycat KFC Fried Chicken: - Chicken pieces: 10 (preferably legs and thighs) - Buttermilk: 2 cups - All-purpose flour: 2 cups - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference) - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Vegetable oil (for frying) These ingredients bring out the flavor and crunch that everyone loves. The buttermilk makes the chicken tender and juicy. The mix of seasonings adds that famous taste. When you combine these ingredients, you create magic in your kitchen. You can find the Full Recipe for this crispy delight later in this article. Enjoy cooking! Marinating chicken in buttermilk is key to great flavor. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. I recommend marinating for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This extra time helps the flavors soak in deeply. Mixing the dry ingredients correctly is important for the perfect coating. In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and basil. Whisk until everything blends well. For a crunchy texture, make sure to use fresh flour. After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Let any extra liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Press firmly to coat well. Tap off any extra flour before setting the chicken aside. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Keep a thermometer handy to check the temperature. Fry the chicken in batches. This prevents overcrowding and keeps the oil hot. Cook each piece for about 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This helps drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to stay crispy. Your fried chicken is now ready! Enjoy it with your favorite sides and sauces. To get that perfect crispiness, you need to pay attention to the frying temperature. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy. Fry each piece for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway to ensure even cooking. To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C). One common mistake is overcrowding the frying pan. When you add too much chicken, the oil cools down. This can lead to soggy chicken. Fry in batches instead. Another mistake is skipping the marination step. Marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 4 hours in the fridge. Want to boost the flavor? Add more spices to your mix. Try 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat or 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky taste. You can also mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for a fresh twist. Adjust the cayenne pepper to match your spice level. This way, you can make your fried chicken truly your own. For the Full Recipe, check out the detailed instructions to make this dish a hit! {{image_4}} To make your fried chicken spicy, you can adjust the cayenne pepper. Start with 1/2 teaspoon, then add more if you want more heat. You can also add hot sauce to the buttermilk. This will give your chicken a nice kick and extra flavor. If you prefer using an air fryer, you can modify the recipe. First, prepare the chicken as usual. Then, place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them at 400°F for about 25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. This method gives you a crispy result with less oil. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure you mix well to keep the flavor and texture. You might need to adjust the amount of flour to get the right coating consistency. To keep your leftover chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. If you do not have one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate the chicken within two hours of cooking to avoid bacteria growth. Leftover fried chicken can last up to four days in the fridge. However, it is best to eat it sooner for the best taste. For reheating fried chicken, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps the chicken moist. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. If you want to keep the coating crispy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also reheat chicken in an air fryer for a crispy finish. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 8-10 minutes. To freeze cooked chicken, first let it cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Fried chicken can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat the chicken using the oven or air fryer for the best results. This way, you maintain its crispy goodness. The secret lies in the right blend of spices and a good marination. KFC’s crispy coating uses a mix of flour, spices, and buttermilk. For this recipe, you need: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried basil Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps keep it moist. This combination of flavors creates that tasty crunch you love. Yes, you can use various chicken cuts. Legs and thighs work best for frying. Breasts can also be used, but they cook faster, so adjust your time. Here are some ideas: - Chicken thighs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes. - Chicken legs: Cook for about 12-15 minutes. - Chicken breasts: Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure all pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Frying chicken takes time based on the cut size. Here’s a breakdown: - Small pieces (like wings): 8-10 minutes. - Medium pieces (like breasts): 8-10 minutes. - Large pieces (like thighs and legs): 12-15 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s safe to eat. Classic Southern sides are perfect with fried chicken. Here are my top picks: - Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, it adds a refreshing touch. - Cornbread: Slightly sweet, it complements the savory chicken. These sides will enhance your meal and make it feel complete. For the full recipe, check the main article! You've learned how to make crispy, flavorful fried chicken, just like KFC. From marinating in buttermilk to the frying tips, each step matters. Remember, don’t rush the marination; it’s key to moist chicken. Avoid common mistakes, like overcrowding the pan, for perfect results every time. Feel free to experiment with variations that suit your taste, such as the air fryer method. With proper storage and reheating techniques, your leftovers can still be delicious. Enjoy this easy recipe and make it your own!

Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate crispy Southern delight with this fried chicken recipe! Marinated in buttermilk for maximum flavor and tenderness, each piece is coated in a savory blend of spices and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or coleslaw. Click through to discover the secrets to achieving that mouthwatering crunch and impress your guests with homemade Southern goodness!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

10 pieces of chicken (preferably legs and thighs)

2 cups buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried basil

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, place your chicken pieces and pour in the buttermilk. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

    Prepare the Coating: In another large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients—flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and basil. Whisk everything together until well blended.

      Dredge the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Take each piece and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring to press the flour onto the chicken for a thorough coating. Tap off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate or wire rack.

        Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a deep fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 2 inches in depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). It’s best to use a cooking thermometer to achieve the perfect frying temperature.

          Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the pan. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. Cook each piece for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C).

            Drain and Rest: Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, transfer it to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This setup allows excess oil to drain off. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes; this rest period will help to maintain its crispiness.

              Serve: Your crispy fried chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it up with your favorite dipping sauces and a side of cornbread or coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 4 hours (marination) | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, serve the chicken on a rustic platter lined with parchment paper and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Accompany with colorful dipping sauces for visual appeal and variety.

                    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

                    Leave a Comment

                    Recipe Rating