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Kentucky Fried Chicken

This Kentucky Fried Chicken is a comfort food classic! Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Prep Time4 hours
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time4 hours 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Comfort Food, Fried Chicken, Homemade
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 whole chicken (cut up into 8 pieces)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (for the coating)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spice Blend:

  • 1 cup ground paprika (for color and flavor)
  • 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
  • ½ teaspoon MSG (optional, for enhanced umami flavor)

Instructions

Instructions:

  • In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and beaten egg. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, ground white pepper, celery salt, ground black pepper, dry ground mustard, kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, ginger, and MSG if using.
  • In a deep fryer or heavy pot, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  • Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached, about 12-15 minutes per side.
  • Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the excess oil to drain.
  • Serve your homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken hot, perhaps with a side of coleslaw and mashed potatoes.

Equipment

  • Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Wire Rack
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Always check the oil temperature before frying for the best results.
  • Don't rush the marinating process for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
  • Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.