Copycat KFC Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• I get incredibly crispy chicken with a perfectly seasoned coating.
• The buttermilk marinade helps create juicy and tender meat.
• I can make restaurant-style fried chicken right at home.
• The blend of herbs and spices gives every bite plenty of flavor.
• It works well for family meals, parties, and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp celery salt
• 1/2 tsp ground mustard
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. I whisk together the buttermilk and eggs in a large bowl. I add the chicken pieces, cover the bowl, and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
2. In another large bowl, I whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, ground mustard, ginger, and white pepper.
3. I remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess liquid to drip off. I dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
4. I place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.
5. I heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
6. I fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, for 15–18 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. I transfer the fried chicken to paper towels to drain and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 4 hours
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 38 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
• For extra crunch, I mix a small amount of crushed cornflakes into the flour coating.
• I use chicken wings when I want a party-friendly appetizer.
• I occasionally substitute smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• For a lighter option, I prepare the chicken in an air fryer after coating it.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze the cooled chicken for up to 3 months.

To reheat, I place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy coating. I avoid microwaving when possible because it can soften the crust.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight marination provides the best flavor and tenderness.

Why do I let the coated chicken rest before frying?

I let the chicken rest so the flour coating can hydrate slightly and adhere better, which helps prevent it from falling off during frying.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, I can use boneless thighs or breasts. I simply adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer and make sure the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What oil works best for frying?

I prefer neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

Conclusion

I love this Copycat KFC Chicken recipe because it combines a flavorful blend of herbs and spices with a crispy, golden coating and juicy chicken. The buttermilk marinade and seasoned flour create a satisfying homemade version of a classic favorite. Whether I’m serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe always delivers delicious results.

Print