Homemade KFC-Style Original Secret Chicken Recipe

Experience the joy of crispy, flavorful fried chicken at home with this inspired recipe for KFC’s Original Secret Chicken. This dish captures the essence of the beloved fast-food favorite, featuring a perfectly seasoned and crunchy coating, juicy chicken, and a blend of secret spices that tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for family gatherings or a weekend treat, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen pro!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 pounds of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, and wings)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper

For the Flour Coating:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, and white pepper.
    • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.
  2. Prepare the Flour Coating:
    • In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, white pepper, and baking powder.
    • Whisk until well combined.
  3. Dredge the Chicken:
    • Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess marinade to drip off.
    • Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a wire rack to rest for 15-20 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better.
  4. Heat the Oil:
    • In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the Chicken:
    • Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
    • Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  6. Drain and Serve:
    • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
    • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  7. Enjoy:
    • Serve your homemade KFC-style chicken hot with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.

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