Go Back

KFC Original Recipe Chicken Copycat

Recreate the crispy, flavorful taste of KFC fried chicken in your own kitchen with this simple and delicious copycat recipe.
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 18 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 cups buttermilk For marinating the chicken

For the Coating

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For dredging the chicken
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Oil for frying For frying the chicken

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken

  • Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Prepare the Coating

  • In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to prepare the seasoned flour.

Preheat the Oil

  • Fill a deep skillet or fryer with oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C) for frying.

Coat the Chicken

  • Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour, ensuring full coverage.

Fry the Chicken

  • Carefully place coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Drain and Serve

  • Drain cooked chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. For extra crunch, double dip the chicken in buttermilk and seasoned flour before frying. Consider frying outdoors if your kitchen gets too hot.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Fried Chicken, KFC Copycat, Southern Cooking