Growing up, the odour of Kentucky Fried Chicken meant special instances and own family get-togethers—that crispy, golden outside and juicy internal have become so comforting. As I got older, I left out that flavour; but, I did no longer need the excessive-calorie eating place meals. Then, I located a way to make KFC flavor at domestic.
After the Chicago Tribune shared KFC’s eleven herbs and spices in 2016, I desired to attempt making them myself. I spent quite a bit time attempting unique recipes and getting to know about KFC’s secrets and techniques. Now, I have a fried bird recipe that is simply as appropriate as KFC’s, however more healthful and higher splendid.
Table of contents
- The History Behind KFC’s Secret Recipe
- Essential Ingredients for Perfect KFC-Style Chicken
- The Famous Eleven Herbs and Spices Blend
- Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe
- The Art of Buttermilk Marination
- Breaking Down and Preparing the Chicken
- Deep Frying Techniques for Perfect Crispiness
- Achieving the Signature KFC Coating
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- Conclusion
The History Behind KFC’s Secret Recipe
The tale of KFC’s secret recipe is as fascinating as the delicious chicken it makes. In 1952, Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder, created this mixture of 11 herbs and spices. For decades, it’s been key to KFC’s success, making it stand out and delight chicken fans anywhere.
Colonel Sanders’ Legacy
Colonel Harland Sanders started the food commercial enterprise in 1930, starting a restaurant in a fuel station in Kentucky. He worked hard to perfect his fried chicken recipe, which has become very popular. In 1964, he bought the name of the game recipe for $2 million, helping KFC grow into a worldwide emblem.
The Chicago Tribune Revelation
For years, KFC’s secret taste became a mystery. However, in 2016, a Chicago Tribune reporter observed a scrapbook that revealed the original recipe. It included salt, thyme, basil, and extra, making up the eleven herbs and spices.
Evolution of the Recipe
KFC has tweaked the recipe through the years, using fresher substances and adjusting flavours. They’ve additionally delivered MSG to boost the chook’s taste, regardless of some debate about MSG in rapid meals.
Today, the name of the game blend is still on the coronary heart of KFC’s bird, making it unique and a hit inside the fast-meals world.
“The secret blend of 11 herbs and spices has been the cornerstone of KFC’s success, setting the brand apart from its competitors and captivating the taste buds of chicken lovers worldwide.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect KFC-Style Chicken
To make KFC-style fowl at domestic, you want the proper substances. Start with a whole chook, cut into portions. For the buttermilk marinade, blend buttermilk and pickle juice in equal parts. This mix tenderizes the hen and provides moisture.
For the coating, use all-purpose flour combined with cornstarch and a unique spice mixture. The spice mixture includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and more. These herbs and spices give KFC its precise flavour.
Remember vegetable oil for frying. Heat the oil between 340-350°F for the nice consequences. With those ingredients, you are geared up to make KFC-fashion fried chook at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken, cut into parts | 1 |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Pickle juice | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1.5 cups |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| Spice blend (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, etc.) | Varies |
| Vegetable oil | Enough for deep frying |
By choosing and mixing these ingredients, you’re on your way to making authentic KFC-style fried chicken at home.
The Famous Eleven Herbs and Spices Blend
KFC’s fried fowl is famous for its 11 herbs and spices blend. Colonel Harland Sanders created this mystery mix. It’s what makes KFC so popular.
Measuring and Mixing the Spices
To get the real KFC flavour, you need to combine the spices simply and properly. The combo consists of salt, thyme, and more. Each spice provides a specific taste.
The MSG Factor
MSG is a key aspect of KFC’s spice blend. It’s been debated; however, it is vital. A leaked recipe indicates MSG is needed for the ideal flavour.
Storage Tips for Spice Blend
Keep the spice combo clean by storing it in a hermetic container. In this manner, you could use it for up to a few months. It’s easy to make KFC-fashion bird at domestic.
Discovering KFC’s spice combination is an adventure of flavour and element. It helps you make KFC-fashion chicken domestically.
Learn more about KFC’s legendary spice and make your fried chicken even better.
Homemade KFC Chicken Recipe
Craving KFC fried bird? Now you can make the well-known eleven herbs and spices blend at home. This clean recipe lets you experience crispy, tasty KFC-fashion fowl without leaving your home.
First, cut a whole chicken into components like thighs, drumsticks, and wings. Then, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step shall be the flavours to soak in.
While the bird marinates, blend the all-cause flour with fried chook recipe seasonings. Use paprika, white pepper, garlic salt, and celery salt for quality flavour.
- Dredge the marinated bird portions in the seasoned flour combination, making sure of an excellent coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Carefully lower the breaded chook into the recent oil and fry for 12-15 mins, till golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the homemade, speedy meals fried bird on a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the extra oil to drip off.
The result is a crispy, flavorful KFC-style fried hen. It really is just as good because of the actual element. Serve it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and biscuits for a complete meal.
“This homemade KFC chicken recipe is a game-changer. The crispy coating and juicy, flavorful meat are spot-on!”
Whether you’re craving a fast food fix or just want a tasty fried chicken dinner, this copycat KFC recipe is a hit. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
The Art of Buttermilk Marination
Getting the perfect buttermilk chicken begins with marination. Soaking the chicken in buttermilk is key. It tenderizes the meat and adds flavor for the breading.
Proper Marinating Techniques
To maximize your marination, follow these easy steps:
- Put the chicken pieces in a big bowl or a resealable bag.
- Fill the buttermilk to cover the chicken completely.
- Add a beaten egg to the marinade. This helps the breading stick better.
- Close the bowl or seal the bag. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours, or up to 12 hours for the best tenderness.
Time and Temperature Guidelines
The marination process depends on time and temperature. For the best results:
- Marinate the chicken in the fridge, not at room temperature.
- Marinate for 2-4 hours for a noticeable texture and flavor change.
- For even juicier chicken, marinate overnight, up to 12 hours.
The acidic buttermilk tenderizes the chicken. It makes the perfect base for crispy breading. With the right marination techniques, you can make KFC-style buttermilk chicken at home.
Breaking Down and Preparing the Chicken
Learning how to prepare chicken is key to making great KFC-style fried chicken at home. You can use a whole chicken or pre-cut parts. The right preparation ensures even cooking and the perfect meat-to-coating ratio.
Cutting a Whole Chicken
Start by breaking down a whole chicken into pieces. Remove the wishbone and separate the legs and thighs. Take off the back and cut the breast in half. This will give you 8-9 pieces ready for frying.
Using Pre-Cut Chicken Parts
For easier prep, use pre-cut chicken parts like legs, thighs, and breasts. This skips the initial breakdown, letting you focus on marinating and breading.
Whether you use a whole chicken or pre-cut parts, proper preparation is vital. It ensures even cooking and the right mix of meat and crispy coating in every bite.
| Chicken Preparation Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting a Whole Chicken |
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| Using Pre-Cut Chicken Parts |
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Proper chicken preparation is crucial for making perfect KFC-style fried chicken at home. By following these steps, you’ll get the iconic crispy, juicy flavor.
Deep Frying Techniques for Perfect Crispiness
To get KFC-style fried chicken at home, you need to master deep frying. It’s all about controlling the oil temperature and using the right techniques. This way, your chicken will come out golden-brown and crunchy.
Oil Temperature Control
Keeping the oil at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) is key. This temperature helps the chicken get a crispy outside and a juicy inside. Use a thermometer to check the oil and adjust it if needed.
Batch Frying Methods
Frying in small batches keeps the oil hot. This ensures the chicken gets a quick, crispy coating. Fry the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes, turning it halfway. Make sure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) inside.
By following these steps, you can make KFC-style fried chicken at home. The secret is a steady oil temperature and frying in batches. This way, you get that perfect crunch and juicy tenderness.
Achieving the Signature KFC Coating
The secret to making KFC’s famous coating is in the breading process. First, marinate the chicken in buttermilk. Then, it’s time to make the crispy chicken coating. A double breading technique is key for that crunchy texture.
Start by coating the chicken in seasoned flour. Press it in to stick well. Shake off extra flour to avoid clumps. The mix of spices and flour, about 2:1, gives the coating its unique taste and crunch.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| White Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Celery Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Ginger | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| MSG (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
After the first flour coat, dip in egg-milk, then flour again. This double breading technique makes the chicken extra crispy. It seals in the juices, just like KFC.
To get the perfect KFC coating, coat the chicken fully and shake off flour. This detail makes the chicken golden and crispy on the outside. It’s perfect with the juicy meat inside.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Enjoying your fried chicken doesn’t have to stop after dinner. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy that KFC-style crunch and juiciness for days. Let’s look at the best ways to keep and reheat your fried chicken.
Storing Fried Chicken
Leftover fried chicken can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure it cools down completely before storing.
Reheating Fried Chicken
There are a few good ways to reheat your fried chicken:
- Oven Reheating: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a wire rack or baking sheet. Reheat for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until it’s 165°F (74°C) inside.
- Air Fryer Reheating: Set to 375°F (190°C). Reheat for 3-5 minutes, turning once.
- Stovetop Reheating: Heat a skillet with a bit of oil over medium. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and hot.
Don’t reheat fried chicken in the microwave. It can make the breading soggy and lose its crispiness.
| Reheating Method | Temperature | Time | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 400°F (200°C) | 15-20 minutes | Crispy, juicy |
| Air Fryer | 375°F (190°C) | 3-5 minutes | Crunchy, evenly heated |
| Stovetop | Medium heat | 2-3 minutes per side | Crispy exterior, moist interior |
| Microwave | N/A | Not recommended | Soggy, uneven heating |
By following these tips, you can enjoy your homemade KFC-style fried chicken for days.
Conclusion
Making homemade KFC-style chicken at home is a fun cooking journey. It’s not as easy as fast food, but you can tweak the flavors and use better ingredients. People love the taste, saying it’s just like the real KFC.
Learning to make this recipe helps you understand the effort behind KFC’s flavor. You’ll get good at mixing the special herbs, marinating in buttermilk, and frying to a crisp. It’s a way to appreciate the skill that goes into making this fried chicken.
If you love KFC or just want tasty homemade chicken, this recipe is a hit. It has a 5-star rating from 3 people, showing it’s a crowd-pleaser. So, give it a try and see the homemade KFC chicken magic for yourself.