Easy Copycat KFC Chicken Guide Recipe

Craving the irresistible taste of KFC’s famous fried chicken? Now you can make this iconic dish right at home with this copycat recipe. Perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, this homemade KFC chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 (3-pound) chicken, cut into 6 pieces

For the Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 tablespoon onion salt
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons Accent (MSG seasoning)

For Frying

• 1 (24-ounce) container lard, enough to cover chicken in fryer

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare the perfect copycat KFC chicken, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

1. Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the coating ingredients.
2. Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot: To fry the chicken pieces evenly.
3. Tongs: For handling the chicken pieces during frying.
4. Wire Rack: To drain the excess oil after frying.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Marinating the Chicken

To achieve the signature KFC flavor and tenderness, marinating the chicken is a crucial first step. Follow these steps to prepare the marinade and coat the chicken:

Preparing the Marinade

1. Whisk the Egg and Buttermilk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until well combined. This mixture will help tenderize the chicken and allow the coating to adhere better.
2. Add the Chicken Pieces: Place the chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This marinating process infuses the chicken with flavor and moisture.

Mixing the Coating Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, dried sage, black pepper, paprika, ground oregano, onion salt, dried marjoram, dried basil, chili powder, garlic powder, and Accent seasoning. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare for Coating: Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Shake off any excess buttermilk from the chicken pieces. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.

Resting the Coated Chicken

1. Rest the Chicken: After coating, let the chicken pieces rest on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the coating to adhere better, resulting in a crispier finish when fried.

Frying the Chicken

Frying the chicken to golden, crispy perfection is the heart of this recipe. Follow these steps to ensure your homemade KFC chicken is just right:

Preparing the Fryer

1. Heat the Lard: In a deep fryer or a heavy pot, melt enough lard to submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the lard to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil maintains a consistent temperature, which is crucial for even cooking.

Frying the Chicken

1. Fry the Chicken in Batches: Carefully place a few pieces of coated chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Frying in batches allows the chicken to cook evenly and prevents the oil temperature from dropping too low.
2. Monitor Cooking Time: Fry the chicken pieces for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature if needed.
3. Drain the Chicken: Once fried, remove the chicken pieces from the oil using tongs and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. This step helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Frying

1. Maintain Oil Temperature: It’s important to keep the oil at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy.
2. Use a Wire Rack: Placing the fried chicken on a wire rack helps drain excess oil and keeps the coating crispy. Avoid placing the chicken on paper towels, as this can make the underside soggy.

Seasoning and Serving the Chicken

After frying the chicken to crispy perfection, it’s time to add the finishing touches and serve it. This part covers seasoning the chicken for that extra burst of flavor and presenting it in a mouth-watering manner.

Final Seasoning

1. Optional Additional Seasoning: If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra salt or your favorite seasoning blend on the chicken while it’s still hot. This step enhances the flavor and ensures every bite is as tasty as possible.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Side Dishes: Serve your homemade KFC chicken with classic side dishes like coleslaw, mashed potatoes with gravy, biscuits, and corn on the cob. These sides complement the chicken and provide a well-rounded meal.
2. Plating the Chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces on a large serving platter, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color. This simple touch makes the dish more visually appealing.
3. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy buffalo sauce. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor and cater to different taste preferences.

Tips for Serving

1. Keep It Warm: If you’re serving a large group and need to keep the chicken warm, place the fried pieces on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). This keeps the chicken hot and crispy until you’re ready to serve.
2. Avoid Covering the Chicken: To maintain the crispiness, avoid covering the chicken with foil or a lid, as this can create steam and soften the coating.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Even the best homemade KFC chicken can have leftovers, and it’s important to store and reheat them properly to maintain their deliciousness. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftover Chicken

1. Cool the Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess.
2. Airtight Containers: Place the cooled chicken pieces in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. For best results, use a container that minimizes excess air.
3. Refrigeration: Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage keeps the chicken safe to eat and maintains its flavor.

Freezing Leftover Chicken

1. Prepare for Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
2. Label and Date: Label the bag with the date to keep track of how long the chicken has been frozen. Frozen fried chicken is best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Leftover Chicken

1. Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is hot and crispy. Using a wire rack helps maintain the crispiness by allowing air to circulate around the chicken.
2. Avoid the Microwave: While using a microwave is quicker, it can make the coating soggy. If you must use a microwave, reheat in short intervals on a microwave-safe plate, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
3. Air Fryer Option: An air fryer is also a great tool for reheating fried chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until hot and crispy.

Tips for Best Results

1. Crispiness Check: If the chicken isn’t as crispy as you like after reheating, you can broil it in the oven for a minute or two. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
2. Serve Freshly Reheated: For the best experience, serve the reheated chicken immediately after reheating. This ensures the coating remains crispy and the inside stays juicy.

Conclusion

Creating your own copycat KFC chicken at home is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. With the right ingredients, proper techniques, and a bit of patience, you can enjoy that iconic KFC flavor without leaving your kitchen. From marinating the chicken to frying it to golden perfection, each step is essential in achieving the perfect balance of crispy coating and juicy meat.

Remember, the key to success lies in following the recipe closely, maintaining the correct oil temperature, and not rushing the process. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner, a party, or just a treat for yourself, this homemade KFC chicken is sure to impress.

Storing leftovers and reheating them properly ensures that you can enjoy this tasty treat even the next day, maintaining its delightful crunch and flavor. Experiment with different side dishes, sauces, and seasonings to make the meal your own.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you for bringing the finger-licking goodness of KFC chicken right to your table. Enjoy every bite and share the joy of homemade comfort food with those you love.

Happy cooking!