Introduction

Fried chicken is one of the most beloved comfort foods around the world. While many people have tried to recreate the legendary crispiness of KFC chicken at home, achieving that perfect crunch can be tricky. The good news? We’ve cracked the code! With one simple ingredient, you can make ultra-crispy, flavorful fried chicken that rivals your favorite fast food joint.

The Secret Ingredient for Extra Crispy Chicken

So, what’s the secret to making your homemade fried chicken even better than KFC’s? Cornstarch! This humble pantry staple is the game-changer. Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture helps create a lighter, airier, and crispier texture. It absorbs moisture from the chicken’s surface, ensuring a perfectly crunchy coating when fried.

What Makes KFC Chicken So Crispy?

KFC’s signature chicken is known for its extra-crunchy coating and juicy interior. The secret lies in a combination of a well-seasoned flour mixture, a special dredging process, and pressure frying. While most home cooks don’t have a pressure fryer, we’ll show you how to achieve similar results using a deep fryer or a stovetop method.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4-6 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Frying:

• 4 cups vegetable oil or peanut oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
• Add the chicken pieces and ensure they’re fully coated in the mixture.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). This helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

• In another large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together, making sure to include the cornstarch for extra crispiness.
• Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off.
• Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing it in to ensure a thick, even coating.
• Let the coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes—this helps the breading adhere better.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

• In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

• Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
• Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
• Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Remove and drain on a wire rack to keep the coating crispy.

Tips for the Crispiest Chicken

• Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: After the first coating, dip the chicken back into buttermilk and coat it again in flour.
• Use Cornstarch: This is the key to getting an ultra-light, crispy texture.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: If the oil gets too cool, the chicken will absorb too much grease; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes to allow excess oil to drain and the crust to set.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy restaurant-quality crispy fried chicken at home with just one simple trick—adding cornstarch! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a party, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

Have You Tried This Recipe?

If you loved this homemade KFC-style fried chicken, share your experience in the comments below!