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If you’ve ever found yourself craving that crispy, savory, perfectly seasoned chicken from KFC, but wished you could recreate it right at home, then you are going to love this Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe. It captures that iconic crunchy crust with juicy, tender meat inside — all without having to step foot into a fast-food joint. This recipe brings all the deliciousness to your kitchen, making it a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game day snacks, or anytime you want a bit of that fried chicken magic. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic reimagined for home cooks everywhere!

Two golden brown fried pieces of chicken held close together by a woman's hand in the foreground, showing a crunchy, bumpy texture with crisp edges. In the background, more fried chicken pieces are piled on a white plate with a blue checkered pattern. The plate rests on a wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet essential, the ingredients for this Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe work together like a dream. Each one adds a specific layer of flavor, texture, or color that creates that unmistakable crispy coating and juicy inside we all adore.

340 g chicken: Fresh, quality chicken pieces are the star of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat.
1/2 tsp salt (for chicken marinade): Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and helps tenderize.
1/2 tsp black pepper (for chicken marinade): Adds mild heat and earthiness to the marinade.
1 tsp onion powder (for chicken marinade): Gives a savory depth that mimics KFC’s secret spice blend.
1 tsp garlic powder (for chicken marinade): Brings a warm, aromatic kick to the chicken.
1/2 tsp chili powder (for chicken marinade): Adds a subtle smoky heat for flavor complexity.
1 tbsp cornstarch (for chicken marinade): Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it moist.
1 egg: Binds the batter ingredients and moisture for that perfect crispy crust.
100 g all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crispy coating that locks in juiciness.
50 g cornstarch: Lightens the coating, making it extra crispy and delicate.
5 g baking powder: Adds fluffiness and crackle to the fried batter.
1/2 tsp salt: Seasoning the flour enhances every bite of the crust.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Infuses the coating with savory sweetness.
1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts that signature flavorful garlic aroma throughout.

How to Make Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and a spoonful of cornstarch. This marinade not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is juicy and delicious. Let it sit for 15 minutes so the flavors really sink in.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixtures

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Divide this dry mixture into two parts with a ratio of two-thirds to one-third. This sets the stage for the two-step coating process that guarantees maximum crunch.

Step 3: Make the Wet Batter

Take the smaller portion of the flour mix and add the egg. Whisk it together well, then slowly add about 30 ml of water, mixing until smooth. This wet batter will help create the perfect glue between the flour and the chicken for that iconic double-coated crispiness.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

First, dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the larger flour portion, making sure every nook is covered. Then, dip it into the wet batter, letting the mixture cling to the surface. Finally, coat it again with the dry flour mixture and give it a good shake to remove any excess. This triple-coating technique is what gives you that irresistible crunchy exterior.

Step 5: First Fry

Heat oil to medium temperature and gently place your chicken pieces in the frying pan or deep fryer. Fry them until you see a light golden color developing, which usually takes several minutes. This step cooks the chicken through while setting the crust.

Step 6: Second Fry for Perfection

Remove the chicken pieces briefly to drain any excess oil. Then, refry them just until they turn a stunning golden brown. This second fry crisps up the crust beautifully and locks in the juicy tenderness of the meat inside. You’ll notice the fragrant smell that’s a hallmark of great fried chicken emerging here.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve your Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe piping hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces, or just enjoy it as is. Every bite is a satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful chicken. It’s hard to believe this classic taste can come from your own kitchen!

How to Serve Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

A close-up image shows a woman's hand holding a piece of crispy fried chicken dipped halfway in a thick, shiny red sauce. The fried chicken is golden brown with a crunchy, bumpy texture. The chicken piece is dipped into a small white bowl filled with red sauce. The background below the bowl shows a white marbled surface partly covered by a blurred round plate with a blue checkered design. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an extra layer of color and smoky aroma to your fried chicken. Lemon wedges squeezed over the top provide a delightful zesty contrast to the savory crust.

Side Dishes

Classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, coleslaw, or buttery corn on the cob complement the crispy chicken perfectly. For a lighter twist, fresh green beans or a crisp garden salad make great accompaniments as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate: stack your fried chicken on a flaky biscuit for a southern-style sandwich, or serve pieces over creamy mac and cheese for a comfort food mashup. You can also create a picnic platter with dipping sauces, pickles, and freshly baked rolls to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover fried chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining much of its flavor, though the crust may soften slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked fried chicken by wrapping each piece in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen fried chicken stays good for up to 2 months and is a lifesaver for quick, indulgent meals later.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid using the microwave as it makes the crust soggy. Instead, re-crisp your chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This way, your Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe tastes almost freshly made.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for the Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe?

Bone-in, skin-on pieces like drumsticks, thighs, and wings work best for this recipe because they stay juicy inside and crisp up beautifully on the outside.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used but be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster. Adjust frying times accordingly for tender results.

Is it necessary to double fry the chicken?

Double frying is key to achieving that signature crispy, golden-brown crust and juicy interior found in the Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe. It seals in moisture while adding extra crunch.

Can I bake this fried chicken instead of deep-frying?

While baking is a healthier option, it won’t produce the same crispy texture as deep-frying. However, you can bake in a very hot oven with a convection setting to get somewhat close.

What dipping sauces go best with this fried chicken?

Classic options include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy buffalo sauce. Choose your favorite or get creative with homemade sauces for an extra special touch.

Final Thoughts

This Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves that perfect crunch paired with tender, flavorful chicken. It’s surprisingly easy and so rewarding to make at home, turning any meal into a feast. I hope you love whipping up this favorite as much as I do — trust me, once you’ve cracked the code, there’s no going back!

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Copy Cat KFC Fried Chicken Recipe