Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken

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Introduction

Quick & Easy Homemade KFC-Style Chicken brings the irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness of the famous fried chicken straight into your kitchen. With a flavorful seasoned coating and a tender, marinated interior, this recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-style treat at home without the wait.

Origin

Fried chicken has roots in both Southern United States cuisine and European frying techniques, with modern fast-food renditions like KFC popularized in the mid-20th century by Colonel Harland Sanders. Homemade versions adapt these iconic flavors for convenience and freshness.

Cultural Significance

Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food worldwide, especially in the U.S., where it represents Southern hospitality and family gatherings. The KFC-style variant has become a global symbol of indulgent, crispy fried chicken that is both flavorful and nostalgic.

Ingredients Quantity

For the chicken:

  • 1 kg chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp salt

For the flour coating:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp paprika

Optional Additions

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or rosemary)
  • Cornstarch (¼ cup) for extra crispiness

Tips for Success

  1. Marinate the chicken at least 1 hour (or overnight) for maximum juiciness.
  2. Pat the chicken dry before coating to ensure a crisp crust.
  3. Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; cook in batches for even browning.
  4. Use medium heat to cook through without burning the crust.
  5. Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack rather than paper towels to keep it crispy.

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken:
    • In a bowl, combine chicken, buttermilk, and salt.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Prepare the coating:
    • In a large bowl, mix flour, paprika, and any optional seasonings.
  3. Coat the chicken:
    • Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
    • Dredge in flour mixture until fully coated.
  4. Cook the chicken:
    • Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet to 175°C (350°F).
    • Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 75°C / 165°F).
  5. Drain and serve:
    • Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
    • Serve hot with sides of your choice.

Description

This chicken is golden, crunchy, and deeply flavorful. The exterior delivers a satisfying crispiness, while the interior remains juicy and tender. The seasoning can be easily customized to your preferred level of heat or aromatic intensity.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 380–420 kcal
  • Fat: 20–25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
  • Protein: 30–35 g
  • Sodium: depends on added salt and seasonings

Note: Values vary depending on frying method and size of chicken pieces.

Conclusion

Homemade KFC-style chicken offers the perfect combination of crunch, flavor, and juiciness, all made with simple ingredients. It’s a fun, rewarding way to recreate a fast-food favorite in your own kitchen.

Recommendation

Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob for a classic meal. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

You can enjoy this comfort food guilt-free by baking instead of frying, using skinless pieces, or air-frying for a lower-fat version. The homemade approach also allows full control over seasoning and oil quality, making this indulgence both satisfying and mindful.

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