Dinner

So Crispy Delicious Chicken – KFC Style Recipe

Name: So Crispy Delicious Chicken – KFC Style Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 pieces of chicken; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup corn starch; 1 tablespoon paprika; 2 teaspoons onion salt; 1 teaspoon celery salt; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying (enough for deep frying, approximately 4 cups or as needed)

BySana Jeannette January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

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Introduction

If you crave that irresistibly crispy, flavorful fried chicken just like KFC, this recipe is for you. With a perfect blend of spices and a crunchy coating, it’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings at home.

A close-up of a pile of crispy fried chicken pieces placed on white paper inside a white plate. The chicken has a golden-brown, crunchy textured coating with uneven, rough edges showing the fried batter. Each piece varies slightly in shape and size, including drumsticks and chunky thigh pieces. The background surface is a white marbled texture, contrasting the warm orange and brown tones of the chicken. The image looks sharp and detailed with a natural light effect. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 pieces of chicken
1 cup buttermilk

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup corn starch

1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons onion salt

1 teaspoon celery salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and add moisture.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the flour, corn starch, paprika, onion salt, celery salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring every bit is coated for maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes depending on size.

Step 5: Place the fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and keep the crust crisp.
Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful delight!

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, double dredge the chicken by dipping it again in buttermilk and then flour mixture before frying.

Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness according to your preference.
Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature; this helps achieve an even golden crust without greasiness.
Substitute chicken pieces with wings or drumsticks for different serving options.

Storage

Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a pile of fried chicken drumsticks and wings with a crispy, golden-brown crunchy coating. The chicken pieces show rough, textured layers with a warm orange-brown color, piled together on a white paper with faint red print, all placed on a white marbled surface. The crunchy coating looks thick and uneven, showing the fried crust clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While buttermilk helps tenderize and adds tang, you can substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

What oil is best for frying this chicken?

Use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil for best results. These oils ensure a crispy texture without burning during frying.