Craving that famous KFC crispy fried chicken at home? You’re in luck! This easy homemade fried chicken recipe gives you that crispy, golden-brown crunch with a juicy, flavorful inside—without the drive-thru.
🏆 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Crunchy – Just like KFC but homemade and even better!
✔ Budget-Friendly – No need to spend extra when you can make it at home.
✔ Family Favorite – Perfect for dinner, game nights, or parties.
✔ Secret Hack: Double-coating and resting the chicken make all the difference!
🔔 Pro Tip: Pair this chicken with homemade coleslaw, buttery biscuits, or mashed potatoes for the full KFC experience!
📌 Ingredients (Serves 5-6)
For the Chicken:
- 10 chicken pieces (legs and thighs, skin-on for crispiness)
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch (for that extra crunch!)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup evaporated milk (for tenderness)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (adds a secret kick!)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups wheat flour (or all-purpose flour as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning (your favorite brand or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or peanut oil for the crispiest results!)
🍗 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Prep & Season the Chicken
1️⃣ Wash and thoroughly pat dry the chicken pieces.
2️⃣ Season with salt and black pepper for maximum flavor.
💡 Chef’s Tip: Drying the chicken well helps the batter stick better!
🍲 Step 2: Parboil for Extra Juiciness
1️⃣ In a large pot, add the chicken and partially submerge in water.
2️⃣ Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes (not boiling!).
3️⃣ Remove from heat, drain, and let the chicken cool slightly.
💡 Why parboil? This step keeps the chicken juicy inside while allowing a super crispy outside.
🍽️ Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Coating
🔹 Bowl 1 (Dry Mix): Combine flour, cornstarch, minced garlic, and chicken seasoning.
🔹 Bowl 2 (Wet Mix): Whisk together evaporated milk, eggs, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
💡 Secret Ingredient: Cornstarch makes the coating extra crispy!
🍗 Step 4: Double-Coat for Extra Crunch
1️⃣ Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture for a light coat.
2️⃣ Dip into the wet mixture (fully submerge).
3️⃣ Coat again in the flour mixture for a thick, crispy layer.
4️⃣ Refrigerate the coated chicken for 10-15 minutes before frying.
💡 This resting step helps the coating stick and prevents soggy breading!
🛢️ Step 5: Heat the Oil (Perfect Temperature is Key!)
- In a large deep skillet or pot, heat enough oil to fully submerge the chicken.
- Test the oil: Drop a small pinch of flour—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready!
- Ideal frying temperature: 325-350°F (165-175°C).
💡 Avoid greasy chicken! Overheating oil burns the outside while leaving the inside raw.
🍳 Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection
1️⃣ Fry 2-3 pieces at a time (don’t overcrowd).
2️⃣ Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
3️⃣ Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
💡 Want extra crunch? Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving!
🍽️ Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Pair your crispy fried chicken with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or warm biscuits.
🔥 Bonus: Drizzle with honey or hot sauce for a sweet & spicy kick!
👩🍳 Pro Tips for the Best Homemade KFC Chicken
✔ Double coat the chicken for extra crispiness.
✔ Let the batter rest before frying.
✔ Use cornstarch for that signature crunch.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for even cooking.
🔥 FAQs
❓ How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.
❓ Can I use an air fryer?
- Yes! Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and spray chicken with oil.
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
❓ Can I use boneless chicken?
- Absolutely! Adjust frying time to 6-8 minutes per side for tenders or nuggets.
⭐ Try This Recipe & Let Us Know!
Made this crispy homemade KFC chicken? We’d love to hear from you!
⭐ Rate the recipe below & share your photos on Instagram (@YourBlogName) using #HomemadeKFC for a chance to be featured!
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