Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken

This Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken features juicy, tender chicken wrapped in a crispy, well-seasoned coating inspired by the famous original recipe. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or special occasions.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time: 4–12 hours
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes per batch
Total Time: About 4½–13 hours
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

Chicken

• 3 lbs (1.4 kg) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, and breasts)

Marinade

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika

Seasoned Flour

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp ground white pepper
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1 tsp dry mustard
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp salt

For Frying

• Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 4–12 hours.

2. Prepare the Coating

1. In a large shallow dish, combine all the seasoned flour ingredients.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off.
3. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken.
4. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10–15 minutes so the coating adheres well.

3. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy Dutch oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Fry the chicken in small batches without overcrowding the pot.
3. Cook for 15–18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain. Avoid placing it directly on paper towels, which can soften the crust.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy
• Coleslaw
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Corn on the cob
• Macaroni and cheese
• Potato wedges
• Pickles

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken

• Marinate overnight for the juiciest, most flavorful chicken.
• Let the coated chicken rest before frying to help the breading stick.
• Maintain the oil temperature around 325°F (163°C) throughout frying.
• Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature from dropping.
• For an extra-crunchy coating, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk, then into the seasoned flour a second time before frying.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.

Enjoy this crispy, flavorful Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken with your favorite comfort-food sides for a delicious meal everyone will love!