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Homemade KFC Chicken: How to Make Unforgettable Comfort Food Tonight

Family enjoying homemade KFC chicken at kitchen table

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This Homemade KFC Chicken recipe is a crave-worthy copycat that brings the iconic flavor and crispy coating of Kentucky Fried Chicken right to your kitchen. Using a blend of 11 secret herbs and spices, tender marinated chicken, and the perfect frying method, you’ll get juicy, golden-brown pieces just like your favorite fast-food treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 11/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
  • 11/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1 tablespoon celery salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ground yellow mustard
  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 3 tablespoons ground white pepper
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 chicken, cut up into eight pieces
  • Neutral oil for frying (canola or peanut oil)
  • MSG seasoning (like Ajinomoto or Accent, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour with all herbs and spices; set aside.
  2. In another large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and beaten egg until well combined.
  3. Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, tossing to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe wire rack on top; set aside.
  5. Heat 3 inches of neutral oil in a Dutch oven or electric fryer to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer.
  6. Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the seasoned flour, pressing to adhere. Shake off excess flour.
  7. Carefully place dredged chicken pieces into hot oil, cooking 3–4 pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding.
  8. Fry each piece for about 12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Transfer fried chicken to the prepared rack and place in the preheated oven to keep warm.
  10. Allow the oil to return to 350°F before frying more chicken. Repeat dredging and frying until all chicken is cooked.
  11. Check that all pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  12. Sprinkle with a few shakes of MSG before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight yields the juiciest, most flavorful results.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure oil stays at 350°F for perfect crispiness.
  • Oven-warming helps maintain crispiness while frying batches.
  • Skip the MSG if sensitive or prefer all-natural seasonings.

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