Kentucky Fried Chicken

There’s something utterly irresistible about Kentucky Fried Chicken. I remember the first time I bit into a crispy, golden piece of fried chicken; it was like a revelation. The crunch, the juiciness, and that unique blend of spices—each bite was a step closer to culinary heaven. Growing up, my family would gather around the table, eagerly awaiting the first batch to come out of the fryer, and the air was filled with an intoxicating aroma. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a celebration. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a picnic in the park, or a casual weeknight treat, Kentucky Fried Chicken always brings a sense of joy and togetherness. Each piece tells a story, and every crispy bit carries a memory.

Ingredient List for Kentucky Fried Chicken

The ingredients for Kentucky Fried Chicken blend together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect crunch and tender inside. The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken, which absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the marinade and spices.

• 1 whole chicken (cut up into 8 pieces): The main ingredient, providing the chickeny goodness we crave.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderness, ensuring each piece is juicy.
• 1 large egg (beaten): Helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the breading, giving the chicken that amazing crunch.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving that crispy texture we all love.
• ¼ cup ground paprika: Adds beautiful color and a hint of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder: Brings an aromatic kick to the breading.
• 2 tablespoons ground white pepper: Adds a sharp, peppery flavor that enhances the dish.
• 1 tablespoon celery salt: A unique seasoning that adds depth to the flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper: For that classic peppery bite.
• 1 tablespoon dry ground mustard: Adds a tangy note that balances the richness of the chicken.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder: Complements the garlic and boosts the overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme: A fragrant herb that adds an earthy flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried basil: Contributes a slightly sweet, aromatic note.
• 1½ teaspoons dried oregano: Adds a traditional herb flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a warm spice note.
• ½ teaspoon MSG (optional): Enhances umami flavor, but can be omitted if preferred.

Making Kentucky Fried Chicken

Cooking Kentucky Fried Chicken is a delicious journey that starts with proper preparation. Follow these steps carefully to ensure each piece of chicken is flavorful and crispy. The crunch is what makes this dish so appealing, so pay attention to each detail!

1. Begin by cutting the chicken into its respective parts, discarding the carcass. This allows for even cooking and easier frying.
2. In a large bowl, pour in the buttermilk and add the egg. Whisk it well until combined. Once mixed, carefully place the chicken pieces into the bowl, tossing them to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and let it soak for at least 30 minutes; for best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
3. When you’re ready to fry, grab another large bowl and combine the flour with the spices: paprika, garlic powder, ground white pepper, celery salt, ground black pepper, ground mustard, kosher salt, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, ground ginger, and MSG if using. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
4. Now, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. While the oil is heating, prepare a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and set an oven-safe wire rack on top.
5. Once the oil is hot, remove a piece of chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid. Press it into the flour mixture, ensuring it adheres to all sides. Shake off any extra flour, then carefully drop the chicken into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pot; fry no more than 3-4 pieces at a time.
6. Fry the chicken for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning it halfway through. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color and ensure it’s thoroughly cooked—internal temperature should reach 165°F.
7. After frying, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on the wire rack. This allows excess oil to drip off, keeping it crispy. Turn your oven to 175°F and place the baking sheet inside to keep the chicken warm while you fry the remaining pieces.
8. As the oil returns to 350°F, repeat the dredging and frying process for the remaining chicken pieces. Maintaining oil temperature is crucial for consistent results.
9. Once all the chicken is fried, let it stay in the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps it warm and ensures that the inside is perfectly cooked while maintaining that irresistible crispiness.
10. Finally, serve your delicious Kentucky Fried Chicken hot, and enjoy the delightful flavors with your favorite sides!

Recipe Notes about Kentucky Fried Chicken

When preparing Kentucky Fried Chicken, a few key tips can make all the difference. From marinating to frying, each step plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture.

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll remain good for up to three days, but the coating may lose some crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze fully cooked chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven for the best results.
• Reheating: To keep the coating crispy, reheat fried chicken in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Pairing: This fried chicken pairs beautifully with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. It’s perfect for family gatherings or casual lunches.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the breading to suit your taste, or try adding a touch of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.

Pairing Suggestions for Kentucky Fried Chicken

Serving Kentucky Fried Chicken is just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful pairings and occasions to enjoy this dish:

• Classic Sides: Serve your fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and buttered corn for a comforting meal.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast and balances the richness of the fried chicken.
• Picnic Ready: Pack Kentucky Fried Chicken for a picnic! It’s easy to transport and tastes amazing cold or at room temperature.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family reunions or gatherings, as it feeds a crowd and brings everyone together.
• Game Day Treat: Serve it during game nights with friends; it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy Kentucky Fried Chicken during the summer BBQ season, or pair it with hearty fall vegetables for a comforting autumn meal.
• Homemade Sauces: Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a spicy ranch.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kentucky Fried Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. The crispy, seasoned coating combined with tender chicken makes it a favorite for many. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the joy it brings to your table. Cooking can create beautiful moments, and this dish is sure to become a cherished part of your family’s tradition!

Kentucky Fried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Kentucky Fried Chicken is crispy, juicy, and incredibly satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner will have everyone begging for seconds. Perfect for family gatherings or a weekend treat, this recipe is a must-try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Deep Fryer
• Dutch Oven
• Deep Fry Oil Thermometer
• Instant-Read Thermometer

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken (cut up into 8 pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• ¼ cup ground paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dry ground mustard
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon MSG (optional)

Instructions

 

• Cut the chicken into its respective parts, discarding the carcass.
• Pour the buttermilk and egg in a large bowl and whisk well, then place the chicken in the bowl and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and soak for at least 30 minutes. You can marinate the chicken in this mixture overnight in the refrigerator, if desired.
• When ready to fry, combine the flour with the seasonings in a separate large bowl.
• Preheat oven to 175°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set an oven-safe wire rack on top of the baking sheet; set aside.
• In a deep fryer or large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F.
• Remove a piece of chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid. Press the piece of chicken into and through the flour mixture, adhering the mixture to all sides. Shake off excess flour and carefully drop the chicken into the hot oil immediately. Repeat with more pieces, frying no more than 3-4 at a time depending on size.
• Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on the wire rack. Place the baking sheet in the oven.
• Once the oil returns to 350°F, repeat the dredging and frying process with the remaining pieces of chicken.
• When all the chicken is fried, keep them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, maintaining the internal temperature of 165°F until ready to serve.

Notes

• Marinating: I like to marinate my chicken in buttermilk overnight if I’m planning ahead, but soaking for a quick 30 minutes will do the trick.
• Drying: After marinating, pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This will help the seasoned flour stick, so you get crunchy breading while frying.
• Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside while remaining raw in the middle. Too low, and the breading will get soggy.
• Frying: Be sure not to overcrowd the pot while frying. This will reduce the oil temperature, leading to oily, soggy chicken.
• Turning: Resist the urge to turn the chicken over until you see a golden brown line all the way around the sides of the chicken. This line tells you that the breading is evenly crispy.
• Keeping Warm: Place the chicken pieces in a warm oven to keep them crisp while you continue frying the rest of the chicken.
• Cooking Temperature: Fully cooked chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F before consuming. Dark meat pieces are best when cooked to 170-180°F.

Keyword crispy fried chicken, homemade fried chicken, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Southern Comfort Food

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.