KFC copycatHardChickenFriedSouthern
Copycat KFC Extra Crispy Chicken
Craggy, crunchy, and seasoned 11 ways — the closest you'll get to the Colonel's recipe without the secret blend.
ⱠPrep: 20 min + 4 hr marinade🳠Cook: 18 min8 pieces
Ingredients
- 8 chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- 1
Marinate chicken in buttermilk mixed with the egg for at least 4 hours in the fridge.
- 2
Combine all the dry seasonings with the flour in a large bag or bowl.
- 3
Dredge each piece thoroughly, pressing the flour into the skin. Let rest 10 minutes on a rack.
- 4
Heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, 8-10 minutes per side.
- 5
Drain on a rack and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro tip
Rest the breaded chicken before frying — it lets the coating hydrate and cling, giving you that craggy KFC crust.