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Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken

Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken delivers the classic crispy, golden-brown coating and juicy, tender meat you love, using a simple blend of herbs and spices inspired by the iconic fast-food favorite.

Ingredients


  • For the Chicken:

    • Bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breasts)
    • Buttermilk
    • Eggs
    • All-purpose flour
    • Salt
    • Black pepper
    • Paprika
    • Garlic powder
    • Onion powder
    • Dried oregano
    • Dried basil
    • Celery salt
    • Ground white pepper
    • Mustard powder
    • Chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

    For Frying:

    • Vegetable oil or peanut oil

Instructions

    1. Marinate the Chicken – Place your chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour in enough buttermilk to cover them, add a pinch of salt, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum tenderness. This step ensures the chicken stays moist while cooking.
    2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour with all the spices and seasonings. Stir well to ensure the spice blend is evenly distributed.
    3. Set Up the Dredging Station – Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Have your seasoned flour in another bowl. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
    4. Coat the Chicken – Dip each piece into the seasoned flour, then into the beaten eggs, then back into the flour for a double coating. Press the flour onto the chicken to make sure it sticks well.
    5. Heat the Oil – Pour enough oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to submerge the chicken pieces. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
    6. Fry the Chicken – Working in batches, carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 12–15 minutes for larger pieces, turning occasionally to cook evenly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
    7. Drain and Rest – Place fried chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Notes

  • Double-coating the chicken creates an extra-crispy crust.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
  • Always check internal temperature to ensure chicken is cooked safely.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade KFC chicken, crispy fried chicken, buttermilk fried chicken