Craving the irresistible crunch and flavor of KFC chicken but don’t want to leave home? This Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken Recipe is your solution. With a crispy golden coating, juicy meat inside, and a blend of herbs and spices, you can recreate the famous fried chicken in your own kitchen—without the fast-food price tag.
Ingredients
For about 6 servings:
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1 kg chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
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2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 2 tbsp lemon juice as substitute)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup cornstarch
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2 tsp salt
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2 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
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½ tsp ground ginger
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½ tsp mustard powder
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Oil for deep frying (vegetable or sunflower oil recommended)
Necessary Utensils
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Large mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Tongs
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Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
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Wire rack or paper towels for draining
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
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Place the chicken pieces in a bowl.
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Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and mix well to coat.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Coating
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In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and all the spices.
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Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
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Remove chicken from the buttermilk.
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Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks.
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For extra crunch, dip the chicken back in buttermilk and coat again in flour (“double dredge” technique).
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 170–175°C (340–350°F).
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Fry chicken pieces in small batches (do not overcrowd) for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Step 5: Drain & Serve
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Place fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Serve hot and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Homemade KFC-Style Chicken
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Double coating = extra crunch. Don’t skip the second dredge if you want that signature crispy texture.
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Rest before frying. Let coated chicken rest 10 minutes before frying to prevent the coating from falling off.
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Oil temperature control. Keep the oil between 170–175°C to avoid greasy chicken or undercooking.
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Use dark meat. Thighs and drumsticks are juicier than chicken breasts.
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Accompaniments: Serve with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, fries, or biscuits for a full KFC-style meal.
Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 pieces)
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Calories: ~420 kcal
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Protein: 28 g
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Carbohydrates: 28 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: 720 mg
(Values may vary depending on portion size and oil absorption.)
Conclusion
Recreating the famous KFC crunch at home is easier than you think! With this Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken Recipe, you’ll impress family and friends with juicy, flavorful chicken that rivals your favorite fast-food chain. Whether for a weekend dinner, a party, or simply to satisfy your fried chicken craving, this recipe guarantees success.
So grab your spices, heat the oil, and get ready to enjoy crispy, golden perfection—homemade and delicious!