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Homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken photo

Kentucky Fried Chicken

This Kentucky Fried Chicken is a homemade classic! Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, it's sure to impress everyone at the table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1 whole chicken (cut up into 8 pieces)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Spice Mix:
  • 1 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
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon MSG (optional)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot
  • Meat thermometer
  • Wire rack
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt. Add the cut-up chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
  2. In another large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground paprika, garlic powder, white pepper, celery salt, black pepper, dry mustard, kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, and ground ginger.
  3. In a deep fryer or heavy pot, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken pieces (about 3 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating. For extra crunch, dip back in the buttermilk and then again in the flour.
  5. Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  6. Transfer the chicken to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.