Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe Crispy, Golden, and Irresistible

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Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe Crispy, Golden, and Irresistible

Introduction

Fried chicken is more than just a comfort food—it’s a cultural icon. Few names in the world of crispy, golden chicken stand out like KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken). That unmistakable crunch, the blend of savory spices, and juicy meat underneath—it’s magic in every bite. But what if you could make that mouthwatering chicken at home?

This Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe brings the crave-worthy flavor of the Colonel’s chicken right into your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving fast food without leaving home, this recipe delivers finger-lickin’ goodness without a deep fryer in sight.

A Brief History of KFC Chicken

Kentucky Fried Chicken was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in the 1930s. Initially, he sold fried chicken from a roadside restaurant in Corbin, Kentucky. Sanders perfected his secret blend of 11 herbs and spices and pressure-fried his chicken to crispy perfection. By the 1950s, KFC had become one of the first fast-food franchises, revolutionizing fried chicken globally.

Although the exact KFC recipe is a guarded secret, many home cooks have attempted to replicate it. This recipe is a well-loved version that mirrors the famous crisp, flavor, and golden color.

Ingredients

For 10 pieces of chicken (thighs and legs with skin):

  • 10 pieces of chicken (preferably thighs and drumsticks with skin)
  • 2 cups wheat flour
  • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions & Method

1. Prep the Chicken

  • Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces.
  • Lightly season with salt and pepper.
  • Let them rest at room temperature while preparing the batter and flour.

2. Make the Wet Batter

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the evaporated milk and mustard.
  • Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor.
  • Set aside.

3. Mix the Dry Coating

  • In a large shallow bowl, mix the wheat flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, white pepper, and thyme.
  • Cornstarch is key—it gives extra crispiness.

4. Coat the Chicken

  • Dip each chicken piece into the wet batter, letting excess drip off.
  • Roll it generously in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  • For extra crispy skin, double dip: repeat the wet and dry coating steps once more.

5. Rest Before Frying

  • Lay coated chicken on a wire rack and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This helps the coating stick better.

6. Fry the Chicken

  • In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry 3–4 pieces at a time. Don’t overcrowd.
  • Fry each piece for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray to drain.

Nutritional Information (Per Piece Estimate)

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g

(Values vary by size and exact ingredients used.)

Benefits of Homemade Fried Chicken

  • Healthier Choice: You control the ingredients—less sodium and no preservatives.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level or use air-frying or oven-baking.
  • Budget-Friendly: Much cheaper than a bucket of takeout!
  • Family Favorite: Pleases adults and kids alike, perfect for gatherings.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is ideal for:

  • Fried chicken lovers
  • Fans of Southern comfort food
  • Anyone craving that signature KFC-style crunch
  • Busy home cooks looking for a crowd-pleaser
  • Sunday dinner or game-day chefs

Cooking Tips for Best Results

  • Use skin-on chicken for juicy meat and crispy skin.
  • Keep oil at a steady temperature to avoid soggy coating.
  • For extra tenderness, soak chicken in buttermilk overnight before battering.
  • Don’t skip the resting time after coating—it helps crust adhere better.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or mac ‘n’ cheese.
  • Pair with honey biscuits or cornbread.
  • Add dipping sauces like gravy, BBQ, or honey mustard for variety.
  • Pack for a picnic or fried chicken party platter.

Conclusion

This Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe is a golden ticket to crunchy, flavorful, and juicy fried chicken—without ever stepping into a fast-food joint. With a perfect blend of spices and a crispy cornstarch-enhanced coating, it brings the Colonel’s classic right into your own kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or indulging in a nostalgic favorite, this dish is bound to become a regular in your comfort food rotation.

To All the Lovers of Fried Chicken…

Here’s to you: the crispy skin pickers, the midnight snackers, the ones who know there’s no such thing as “too much crunch.” May your oil be hot, your chicken juicy, and your plates forever full. Stay golden.

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