How To Fry Chicken Like Kfc

Master the Art of Fried Chicken at Home

Who doesn’t love the crispy, flavorful goodness of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)? The secret behind their finger-licking deliciousness lies in their unique frying technique. In this article, we’ll uncover the magic of KFC’s fried chicken and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen.

The Four Essential Steps

1. Seasoning: Start by marinating your chicken pieces in a blend of secret herbs and spices. While KFC’s famous formula remains a closely guarded secret, you can experiment with a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper to achieve a similar flavor profile.
2. Dredging: Prepare a dredging station with two bowls – one filled with beaten eggs and the other with a mixture of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, and then into the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a crust.
3. Frying: To achieve that signature KFC crunch, deep frying is the way to go. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Draining and Resting: Once your chicken is done frying, carefully remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to settle and the crust to become even crispier.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken

If you want your fried chicken to be even more reminiscent of KFC’s, here are a few additional tips:

• Buttermilk Soak: To tenderize the chicken and add extra moisture, soak it in buttermilk overnight before proceeding with the seasoning and dredging process.
• Double Dredge: For an extra crispy coating, repeat the dredging process by dipping the chicken back into the egg mixture, then the flour mixture, before frying.
• Resting Time: After the second dredge, allow the chicken to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere to the chicken better during frying.
• Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature throughout the frying process. Too hot, and the chicken will burn; too cold, and it will become greasy. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.

Enjoy Your Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken

Now that you have the secrets to frying chicken like KFC, it’s time to head to your kitchen and put your new skills to the test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t come out exactly like KFC’s. With time and a bit of experimentation, you’ll be serving up deliciously crispy fried chicken that rivals your favorite fast-food joint.

So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food in the comfort of your own home!