Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Buttermilk Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour
Mix the spices: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, dry mustard, paprika, garlic salt, ground ginger, and white pepper. Mix well so the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour into the chicken to ensure a good coating. For even crispier chicken, you can repeat the dredging process by dipping the breaded chicken in the buttermilk again, then again in the seasoned flour.
Step 4: Heat the oil
Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
Step 5: Fry the chicken
Fry the chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, a few at a time, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Drain: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place on a rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.
Step 6: Serve
Serving: Serve the fried chicken KFC-style hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits or corn on the cob. Enjoy!
Cooking tips and variations
Crispicious coating: For an extra crispy coating, let the dredged chicken rest on a rack for about 15 to 20 minutes before frying.
Spicy option: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoned flour mixture for a spicier version.
Oven-fried option: For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
Brine: For extra juicy chicken, brine the chicken pieces in a salt water solution for 2-4 hours before marinating in buttermilk.
Conclusion
KFC Style Original Secret Chicken is a delicious and nostalgic dish perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow copycat recipe guarantees tasty and crispy fried chicken every time. Have fun making and enjoying this iconic dish with your family and friends.
Key to remember
The Original KFC Style Secret Chicken offers a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to make and packed with rich flavors. This versatile recipe can be customized with different spices and cooking methods to suit your tastes. Enjoy the classic, crispy, flavorful results of this incredible fried chicken!
