Kentucky Fried Chicken, or KFC, is a global fast-food phenomenon known for its mouthwatering Original Recipe fried chicken. With its secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, KFC has captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. While you can always visit your nearest KFC outlet, there’s something special about making this iconic dish at home. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of recreating KFC’s Original Fried Chicken in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to make KFC Original Fried Chicken:
For the Chicken:
4 pounds of chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings)
2 cups of buttermilk
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of dried rosemary
1 tablespoon of dried thyme
1 tablespoon of dried basil
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
1 tablespoon of dried celery salt
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of onion powder
1 tablespoon of white pepper
1 tablespoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of ground mustard
Vegetable oil for frying
Equipment:
Deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot for frying
Thermometer for monitoring oil temperature
Wire rack for draining
Marinating the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over it. Ensure all pieces are coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. This step helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
Preparing the KFC Seasoning Mix
While the chicken is marinating, let’s create the secret KFC seasoning mix. In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, salt, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, dried celery salt, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, black pepper, and ground mustard. Mix them thoroughly until well combined.
Transfer the seasoning mix into a large, clean, and dry paper bag or a large zip-top bag. This will make it easier to coat the chicken later on.
Coating the Chicken
After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. You can use a wire rack to do this.
Place a few chicken pieces at a time into the bag with the seasoning mix. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously to coat the chicken evenly. Ensure each piece is generously coated with the seasoned flour mixture.
Carefully remove each piece of chicken from the bag, shaking off any excess flour, and place them on a clean, dry surface. Allow the coated chicken to rest for about 15 minutes to help the coating adhere better.
Frying the Chicken
In a deep-fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
Gently place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, one at a time, using a slotted spoon or tongs. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces, until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
As each batch finishes frying, remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and place it on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Your Homemade KFC Original Fried Chicken
Once your KFC-style Original Fried Chicken is perfectly crispy and golden, it’s time to serve it up. You can pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
For an authentic KFC experience, serve your chicken with a side of gravy or dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
Enjoying the Homemade Delight
Making KFC Original Fried Chicken at home is not just about replicating the flavors; it’s about the joy of creating a beloved classic in your own kitchen. With the right ingredients and technique, you can enjoy this iconic dish whenever you please. Whether it’s a family dinner, a picnic, or a special occasion, your homemade KFC-style Original Fried Chicken will undoubtedly be a hit.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Use fresh chicken for the best results. You can choose between various cuts, but it’s essential to maintain consistency in size for even cooking.
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) throughout the frying process. This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
It’s essential to allow the coated chicken to rest for a short time before frying. This helps the breading adhere better and prevents it from falling off during frying.
For a spicier version, you can increase the amount of black and white pepper in the seasoning mix to suit your taste.
Recreating KFC Original Fried Chicken at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that allows you to savor the flavors of this iconic dish without leaving your kitchen. With a bit of patience, attention to detail, and the right combination of herbs and spices, you can enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of KFC-style fried chicken anytime you desire. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and embark on your homemade KFC journey to create a delightful meal that’s sure to please family and friends alike.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While making KFC-style Original Fried Chicken at home can be a delightful experience, it’s not uncommon to face some challenges along the way. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Soggy or Greasy Chicken: If your chicken turns out soggy or overly greasy, it’s likely due to insufficient oil temperature. Ensure that your oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil, resulting in a less crispy texture.
Burnt Coating: On the flip side, if the coating on your chicken is getting too dark too quickly, it may be because the oil temperature is too high. Lower the heat slightly and continue frying to achieve a golden-brown crust without burning.
Uneven Coating: To achieve an even coating of the seasoned flour mixture, ensure that you shake the bag thoroughly after adding the chicken pieces. Additionally, let the coated chicken rest for about 15 minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better.
Dry Chicken: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, and remove the chicken from the oil as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re concerned about overcooking, you can also finish cooking the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Too Salty or Spicy: If you find your chicken too salty or spicy, consider adjusting the seasoning mix to suit your taste. You can reduce the amount of salt or spicy seasonings in the mixture. Remember that taste preferences vary, so don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to your liking.
Health Considerations
While KFC-style Original Fried Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s a fried food, which can be high in calories and saturated fats. Here are a few health-conscious tips:
Portion Control: Enjoy fried chicken in moderation to maintain a balanced diet. Consider serving smaller portions and complementing your meal with lighter sides like a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Oil Management: Properly manage the oil temperature and use a thermometer to minimize the amount of oil absorbed by the chicken during frying.
Healthier Cooking Methods: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider baking or air frying the chicken with a light coating of cooking spray. While it won’t replicate the exact texture of deep-fried chicken, it can be a tasty and lower-fat option.
Dietary Restrictions: If you have dietary restrictions, you can adapt the recipe by using gluten-free flour or plant-based milk alternatives for marinating the chicken.
Making KFC-style Original Fried Chicken at home is an exciting culinary endeavor that allows you to enjoy the iconic flavors of this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. With the right ingredients, technique, and a bit of practice, you can achieve crispy, flavorful fried chicken that rivals the taste of your favorite fast-food chain.
Remember that the key to success lies in marinating the chicken in buttermilk, creating the secret seasoning mix, and maintaining the oil temperature during frying. While it may take a few attempts to perfect your homemade KFC-style chicken, the satisfaction of creating this classic dish from scratch is well worth the effort.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this article, and embark on your culinary journey to make KFC-style Original Fried Chicken that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, your homemade fried chicken will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every bite.
