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KFC Copy Cat Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the distinctive KFC flavor but didn’t want to leave the house, this copycat recipe is for you. Featuring a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices (including an unexpected tomato soup mix), it recreates that crispy, herbaceous perfection right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Spice Blend
  • 1 tablespoon rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon ground sage
  • 1 teaspoon powdered ginger
  • 1 teaspoon marjoram
  • 1.5 teaspoons thyme
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar packed
  • 3 tablespoons dry parsley flakes
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic salt
  • 2 tablespoons onion salt
  • 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon or 4 cubes, mashed
  • 1 cup tomato soup mix Lipton tomato cup of soup mix
Chicken Coating & Frying
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 ounce spice blend use the blended spices from above
  • Chicken pieces Pat dry before coating
  • Buttermilk for dipping
  • Oil for frying (heat to about 350°F)

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Large bowl or paper bag
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Fine strainer

Method
 

  1. Combine 1 tablespoon rosemary, 1 tablespoon oregano, 1 tablespoon ground sage, 1 teaspoon powdered ginger, 1 teaspoon marjoram, and 1 1/2 teaspoons thyme in a blender. Blend briefly to mix the herbs.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 3 tablespoons dry parsley flakes, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 tablespoons garlic salt, 2 tablespoons onion salt, 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon, and 1 cup tomato soup mix. Pulse in the blender for 3-4 minutes until completely pulverized. If you lack a blender, rub the mixture through a fine strainer until a powder-like consistency is achieved.
  3. In a large bowl or paper bag, combine 1 ounce of the prepared spice blend with 1 cup flour. Mix until well combined.
  4. Pat your chicken pieces dry. Thoroughly coat each piece in the seasoned flour. Then dip the coated chicken in buttermilk before returning it to the flour mixture for a second, even coating.
  5. Heat oil to approximately 350°F. Gently lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry until they achieve a golden brown, crispy crust.
  6. Serve the homemade KFC-style chicken with classic Southern sides such as creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, tangy coleslaw, warm buttermilk biscuits, or other favorites like corn on the cob and mac & cheese.

Notes

This homemade KFC copycat recipe replicates the iconic blend of 11 secret herbs and spices with ingredients commonly found in your pantry. The spice blend can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three months, and using fresh herbs when possible will enhance the flavor. Double coating the chicken after a buttermilk dip gives extra crispiness, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for a comforting dinner.