KFC Original Recipe Chicken
KFC Original Recipe Chicken decoded by a food reporter and republished with all 11 herbs and spices to make picture perfect KFC chicken at home!
KFC Original Recipe Chicken has been a huge part of my childhood. As a kid, my aunt would walk me home from school, and we would stop at the KFC that was a half a block from my school. We’d share chicken and a strawberry parfait they used to sell. Unlike the Pioneer Chicken that my mom used to buy, this food memory is one I can still enjoy anytime I wanted.
So why make a copycat recipe of it if you have one a mile down the road? Well, A: Copycat recipes are a ton of fun and B: Way, way, way, way higher quality. Have you been to a KFC in the last decade? I’ve only been a few times but was disappointed each time because the chicken pieces have shrunken… a lot. Also, and hey to each his own (I’m definitely guilty of my fair share of food sins), but KFC uses MSG in the recipe for its KFC Original Recipe Chicken. Oh, and last thing, as far as fast food goes, it tends to be pretty pricy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings back the nostalgic flavors of the beloved KFC Original Recipe Chicken with a homemade twist. You’ll love it because it allows you to control the quality of ingredients, avoid MSG, and enjoy a more generous serving of chicken without breaking the bank. Plus, making it at home is a fun and rewarding experience!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Plastic bag for coating
- Skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 3 beaten eggs
- 4 tablespoons oil
For the Coating:
- 2 cups flour
- 4 teaspoons paprika
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon tarragon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion salt
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- *Optional: Add ketchup to mix
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Sift together all the coating ingredients and place in a clean plastic bag. Coat each chicken piece first with the beaten egg, then with the flour mixture in the bag. Make sure you coat each piece completely with the flour.
Step 2: Heat the oil in a skillet. Brown the chicken in oil slowly, uncovered. Once browned, cover the skillet and keep frying on a very gentle heat until the chicken is fully cooked. Place on paper towels to drain out the excess oil.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly for a crispy crust.
- Use a gentle heat to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the outside.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the coating mix.
- Try marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating for extra tenderness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories, Protein, Fat, Carbohydrates, Sodium (exact values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30-40 minutes or until fully cooked.
Conclusion
This KFC Original Recipe Chicken copycat brings a beloved classic into your kitchen with all the flavor and none of the compromise. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you might have added. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
