Here’s a recipe inspired by the famous KFC Original Chicken. While the exact secret recipe is a closely guarded secret, this version captures that delicious flavor!
KFC-Style Original Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For Frying:
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or peanut oil works well)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour with all the coating ingredients: salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. For extra crispiness, dip it back in the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture again.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2-3 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Adjust the heat as necessary to keep the oil temperature consistent.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, biscuits, or mashed potatoes for a classic meal.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle more seasoning on the chicken after frying.
Enjoy your homemade KFC-style chicken!