Kentucky Fried Chicken

There’s something undeniably comforting about sinking your teeth into a perfectly fried piece of chicken. The crunchy exterior, the juicy meat, and that secret blend of spices all come together to create a culinary experience that is hard to beat. When I think about homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken, it brings back memories of family gatherings, summer picnics, and cozy dinners with loved ones. This recipe captures that spirit and gives you the power to recreate that iconic flavor right in your own kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe for Kentucky Fried Chicken is a labor of love, but trust me, every minute spent in the kitchen is worth it. What I adore about this version is its authenticity. Using a whole chicken allows for maximum flavor and juiciness, and the buttermilk marinade ensures that the meat is incredibly tender. The spice blend is the star of the show, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about frying chicken yourself. It’s an experience that connects you to the food and the process, creating a meal that feels special, no matter the occasion.

Shopping List

• 1 whole chicken (cut up into 8 pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup ground paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dry ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon MSG (optional)

Tools of the Trade

• Large mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken.
• Deep skillet or Dutch oven – for frying the chicken to perfection.
• Meat thermometer – to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
• Whisk – for mixing the buttermilk and egg.
• Slotted spoon – for safely removing the chicken from the oil.
• Cooling rack – to keep the chicken crispy while it cools.

Kentucky Fried Chicken: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your cut-up chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and add the beaten egg. This mixture not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, white pepper, celery salt, black pepper, dry mustard, kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, ground ginger, and MSG if using. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This spice blend is what gives the chicken its signature flavor.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One piece at a time, take the chicken out of the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour and place the chicken on a wire rack. Allow it to rest for about 15 minutes; this helps the coating adhere better during frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small pinch of the flour mixture; it should sizzle upon contact.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the excess oil to drip off while keeping the chicken crispy. Repeat with the remaining pieces. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness of homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken!

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Summer BBQ: Serve the chicken with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic summer meal.
• Game Day: Pair the fried chicken with spicy dipping sauces and celery sticks for a perfect game-day snack.
• Fall Comfort: Add mashed potatoes and gravy to create a heartwarming fall dinner.
• Picnic Delight: Pack the chicken for a picnic with fresh fruit and a refreshing beverage.

Things That Go Wrong

• If the chicken is soggy, it could be due to not letting the excess buttermilk drip off or overcrowding the pan while frying.
• If the coating is falling off, try letting the chicken rest after dredging to help the flour adhere better.
• If your oil is too hot, the outside may burn before the inside is cooked; use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• If the chicken is greasy, it may not have been drained properly after frying or the oil temperature was too low.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Kentucky Fried Chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. If you want to freeze it, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my chicken not crispy?

If your chicken isn’t crispy, it may be due to excess moisture. Make sure to let the chicken rest after dredging and ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying.

Can I use chicken thighs or breasts instead?

Absolutely! You can use any chicken parts you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, as smaller pieces will cook faster.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate cayenne pepper into the flour mixture or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a piece of homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a casual dinner at home, this recipe will bring the taste of comfort food right to your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fry up some deliciousness!