Heres a version of the KFC Original Secret Chicken Recipe that mimics the famous crispy, flavorful chicken! While the exact secret recipe is a well-kept secret, this version brings together a delicious blend of herbs and spices for that iconic KFC taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 chicken breasts or your choice of chicken pieces, like thighs, legs, or wings
2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce optional, for a little heat
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon salt
For the Flour Coating:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon baking powder to help with crispiness
For Frying:
Vegetable oil enough for deep frying
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce if using, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black and white pepper, thyme, basil, oregano, ginger, and salt.
Place the chicken pieces into a large resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken.
Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors marinate.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating
In a large shallow bowl or plate, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black and white pepper, thyme, basil, ground mustard, and baking powder.
Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure its fully coated on all sides.
Set the coated chicken aside on a wire rack or plate while you heat the oil.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to cover the chicken pieces halfway, over medium-high heat about 350F or 175C.
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through internal temperature should reach 165F/74C.
Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve your KFC-style chicken hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy!
This recipe captures the crispy, flavorful goodness of KFCs original chicken! Perfect for a family dinner or a special treat!