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Copycat KFC Original Fried Chicken pieces, crispy and golden

Copycat KFC Original Fried Chicken

A copycat of KFC's Original Recipe fried chicken - buttermilk-brined, double-dredged in a blend of 11 herbs and spices, and fried until shatteringly crisp and juicy.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 3 pounds chicken pieces bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
Seasoned Flour
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Heavy pot or Dutch oven
  • Thermometer
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Whisk the buttermilk and egg, then submerge the chicken pieces and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight.
  2. Combine the flour with all of the herbs and spices in a large bowl.
  3. Lift each piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge heavily in the seasoned flour, pressing it on. For extra crunch, dip back in buttermilk and dredge again.
  4. Heat 2 inches of oil to 325F in a heavy pot. Fry the chicken in batches for 15-18 minutes, turning, until deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165F.
  5. Drain on a wire rack and rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

The signature flavor comes from white pepper, ground ginger, and dried herbs. A buttermilk soak keeps the meat juicy. Fry at a steady 325F for chicken that cooks through without burning.