Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe

Few foods are as iconic as KFC’s crispy fried chicken. That golden, crunchy coating, the juicy meat inside, and the irresistible blend of herbs and spices have made it a worldwide favorite. But what if you could enjoy that same delicious experience right at home? With this Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe, you can!

This recipe captures the signature flavor and crunch of KFC chicken, all with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re making drumsticks, thighs, or wings, this will quickly become your go-to fried chicken recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & crunchy: Golden coating that stays crunchy long after frying.
• Juicy inside: Buttermilk marinade keeps chicken moist and flavorful.
• Bold seasoning: Inspired by KFC’s famous “secret blend” of herbs and spices.
• Better at home: No drive-thru needed, and you control the quality.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 2 lbs chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Seasoned Flour Coating

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon celery salt
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying, about 2–3 inches in a heavy pot)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
2. Pour buttermilk over the chicken and add salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and all the seasoning spices.
2. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
3. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating on firmly.
4. For extra crunch, dip coated chicken back in buttermilk and then in flour again (double-dredge).

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add chicken pieces, a few at a time (don’t overcrowd).
3. Fry for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your homemade KFC-style chicken hot and fresh, alongside coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for the full Southern comfort experience.

Tips for Success

• Double dredge for an extra-crispy coating.
• Maintain oil temperature: Too hot and the coating burns, too cool and it turns greasy.
• Rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels for maximum crunch.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mix for a spicy version.

Variations

• Oven-Baked KFC Chicken: Bake dredged chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes, spraying with oil for a crispy texture.
• Air Fryer KFC Chicken: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Popcorn Chicken: Use bite-sized pieces for a fun party snack.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe brings together the two things that make KFC unforgettable: the flavorful marinade and the seasoned flour coating. By marinating in buttermilk, the chicken stays juicy. By layering on the spice blend, you get that familiar bold flavor. And by frying at the right temperature, the outside gets perfectly crisp while the inside stays tender.

Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor — this Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe is proof that sometimes the best comfort food comes straight from your own kitchen.