Southern KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Mastering the Art of Southern Comfort: KFC-Style Fried Chicken Recipe Unveiled

Step into the heart of Southern comfort with a culinary journey that unveils the secrets behind the legendary KFC-style fried chicken. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – this recipe is a celebration of that iconic Southern flavor. Join us as we dissect the elements that make KFC’s fried chicken a global sensation and guide you through recreating this beloved classic in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 whole chickens, cut into 8 pieces each (or your preferred chicken parts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

For the Coating:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to create the marinade.
  2. Place the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.

Coating and Frying:

  1. In a large, shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, and dried oregano to create the coating mixture.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off.
  4. Coat each chicken piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken for better adhesion.
  5. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet.
  6. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to cook evenly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Repeat the coating and frying process for the remaining chicken pieces.

Cooking Notes:

  • To maintain the crispiness, it’s essential not to overcrowd the skillet, allowing each piece of chicken enough space to fry evenly.
  • Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature consistently.
  • Adjust the seasoning in the coating mixture according to your taste preferences.

Variations:

Spicy Southern Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating mixture for a spicier version.

Honey Glazed Delight: Drizzle honey over the hot fried chicken for a sweet and savory glaze.

Herb-Infused Elegance: Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley into the coating for an herby twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Fried Chicken:

  • Substitute almond flour or a keto-friendly flour alternative for the all-purpose flour in the coating.
  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt or a mixture of heavy cream and water as a replacement for buttermilk.
  • Fry the chicken in a keto-approved oil like avocado oil or lard.

Low-Carb Crunch:

  • Opt for a low-carb flour alternative like coconut flour or almond flour in the coating.
  • Marinate the chicken in a mixture of unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk with a splash of vinegar instead of buttermilk.
  • Choose a low-carb hot sauce or skip it altogether for a milder version.

The Southern KFC-style fried chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Southern United States. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with tempting variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, this dish embodies the soulful flavors that define Southern comfort food.

So, heat up that skillet, immerse yourself in the aromas of seasoned flour and sizzling oil, and embrace the joy of creating a fried chicken experience reminiscent of those iconic red-and-white buckets. The Southern KFC-style fried chicken is more than a dish; it’s a culinary journey that brings the warmth and flavor of Southern kitchens to your table. Share the love, gather your loved ones, and revel in the satisfaction that comes from crafting this timeless classic in your own kitchen.