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Homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken (Copycat Recipe) photo

Kentucky Fried Chicken (Copycat Recipe)

This Kentucky Fried Chicken Copycat Recipe is a crispy, savory delight that brings the iconic taste right to your kitchen!
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup buttermilk (see note)
  • 1 whole chicken cut into 8 pieces
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup ground paprika
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white pepper
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Canola oil for frying

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Shallow dish
  • Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, remaining kosher salt, dry mustard, white pepper, ground ginger, dried thyme, dried basil, black pepper, oregano, celery salt, and garlic powder.
  3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, coating thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour and place the chicken on a wire rack to rest for 10 minutes.
  4. In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, add canola oil until it’s about 3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Once fried, place the chicken on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For an even crispier crust, double-dip the chicken by returning it to the buttermilk after the first dredge and then coating it again in the flour mixture.
  • Let the chicken rest after frying to ensure the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.