KFC Fried Chicken Recipe Extra Crispy: 5 Secrets Unveiled

Name: KFC Fried Chicken Recipe Extra Crispy: 5 Secrets Unveiled
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; Vegetable oil for frying

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 23, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Fried chicken is one of those dishes that brings people together, right? I mean, who can resist the golden, crispy goodness of a perfectly fried piece of chicken? It’s such a comfort food classic, and this KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy is my go-to when I want to recreate that iconic taste at home. I still remember those family dinners when my mom would whip up her version of fried chicken, the aroma wafting through the air, making our mouths water even before we sat down at the table. We’d gather around, each person trying to snag the last piece, and laughter would fill the room. It’s those moments that inspired me to master this recipe because, let’s be honest, nothing beats that satisfying crunch followed by juicy, tender meat. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a picnic, or just an excuse to gather friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making some extra crispy fried chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

kfc fried chicken recipe extra crispy - detail 1

Ingredients List

To make this amazing KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy, you’ll need the following ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that mouthwatering flavor and crunch:

1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces: You can use any combination of thighs, drumsticks, and breasts, but I recommend getting a mix for varying textures and flavors. Make sure your pieces are of similar size for even cooking.
2 cups all-purpose flour: This will be the backbone of your coating, giving it that classic crunch. I like to sift it for a lighter texture!
1 tablespoon paprika: This adds beautiful color and a subtle smokiness that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: A must for that savory depth. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
1 tablespoon onion powder: This complements the garlic beautifully, offering that classic fried chicken taste we all love.
1 tablespoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. You’ll want to season generously!
1 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough to give a little kick without overwhelming the other spices.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This adds a nice warmth, but feel free to adjust it to your heat preference. It’s what gives the chicken that signature zing!
1 cup buttermilk: This is crucial for marinating the chicken. It not only tenderizes the meat but helps the coating stick like a dream.
Vegetable oil for frying: You’ll need enough to fill your fryer or pot about 3 inches deep. This oil gets hot and crispy, just what we need for that perfect fry!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to frying up some of the best chicken around! Trust me, once you have everything ready, the fun really begins!

How to Prepare KFC Fried Chicken Recipe Extra Crispy

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be on your way to creating that crispy, finger-lickin’ fried chicken we all adore.

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

First things first—let’s mix up our coating! In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Make sure to mix them all together thoroughly. I like to use a whisk or a fork to break up any clumps and ensure an even distribution of those spices. An even coating is key to achieving that irresistible crunch when frying! Once it’s all combined, set it aside for a moment while we prep the chicken.

Step 2: Buttermilk Dip

Next up, grab your buttermilk! Pour it into a separate bowl. This step is crucial because the buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps the flour mixture stick better during frying. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, making sure it’s completely submerged. Let any excess drip off before moving on to the next step. This is where the magic starts to happen—trust me, you’ll love the texture that comes from this process!

Step 3: Resting the Chicken

Here’s a little pro tip: after coating your chicken, place the pieces on a wire rack and let them rest for about 30 minutes. I know it sounds tempting to fry them right away, but this resting period is crucial. It allows the coating to adhere better to the chicken, preventing it from falling off during frying. Plus, it gives the chicken time to marinate in that buttermilk goodness, which means extra juicy meat when it’s done!

Step 4: Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part—frying! Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pot until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping in a small bit of batter; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go! Carefully add your chicken pieces to the hot oil, but don’t overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches if necessary! Cook each batch for about 15 minutes or until they turn a golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once they’re done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil. And there you have it—crispy, golden perfection ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

When it comes to nailing the KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy, a few simple tips can make all the difference. Here’s how to ensure your fried chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Rush the Resting Period: I can’t stress this enough! Allowing the coated chicken to rest for 30 minutes is essential. This step really helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from sliding off during frying. It might be tempting to skip, but your future self will thank you!
Watch Your Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) is crucial. Too low, and your chicken will soak up the oil and become greasy; too high, and you risk burning the coating before the chicken cooks through. A thermometer is your best friend here, but if you don’t have one, the batter test should do the trick!
Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the fryer is a common mistake. It drops the oil temperature and leads to uneven cooking. Fry your chicken in small batches, giving each piece plenty of room to bubble away and get that lovely golden crisp we’re after!
Let It Drain: Once your chicken is fried, let it drain on paper towels. This helps remove excess oil and keeps the coating crispy. If you pile the chicken on top of each other immediately, you’ll lose that crunch!
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your spices! The flavor comes from that seasoning mix, so make sure every inch of chicken is coated well. If you like a bit more kick, feel free to up the cayenne or add a pinch of your favorite spice.
Experiment with Marinades: Want to switch it up? Consider marinating your chicken in buttermilk overnight. It really enhances the flavor and tenderness, taking your fried chicken to a whole new level!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy. Happy frying!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Here are the typical nutritional values for this KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy, keeping in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients used:

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 400
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 800mg

These values can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces you use and how much coating sticks to each piece. But hey, indulging in a little crispy fried chicken once in a while is totally worth it, right? Just remember to balance it out with some veggies or a nice salad on the side, and you’ll be golden!

FAQ Section

Got some burning questions about this KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear from fellow chicken lovers:

How can I adjust the cooking time for larger chicken pieces?

If you’re using larger pieces of chicken, like big breasts or thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Aim for about 18-20 minutes per batch instead of the usual 15 minutes. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Trust me, it’s worth the wait for perfectly cooked chicken!

Can I use other types of flour instead of all-purpose?

Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is ideal for that classic crunch, you can try using rice flour or even a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that different flours may alter the texture slightly, but experimentation can lead to delicious results!

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t worry! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly—voila! You’ve got a buttermilk alternative that works just as well in this recipe.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

While baking won’t give you that deep-fried crunch, you can certainly bake the chicken if you’re looking for a healthier alternative! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be the same as the extra crispy fried version, but it’ll still be tasty!

What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken?

To keep your leftover fried chicken crispy, store it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture. When you’re ready to reheat, pop it back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy goodness. Avoid the microwave if you can; it tends to make the coating soggy!

Hopefully, these answers help you on your fried chicken journey! If you have more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Prep: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy ready to fry! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavorful: The blend of spices in the coating packs a punch, giving every bite a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, your taste buds will dance with joy!
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a culinary whiz to whip up this recipe. The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Gluten-Free Option: By swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing that crispy goodness!
Perfect for Gatherings: This fried chicken is always a hit at parties, picnics, and family dinners. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, and you’ll definitely be the star of the show!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy correctly is key to keeping that delightful crunch and juicy flavor intact! Here’s how to do it:

First, let the fried chicken cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled, place the pieces in an airtight container. I like to line the bottom of the container with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture, which helps keep the chicken crispy. Then, layer the chicken pieces, adding another paper towel between layers if you have a lot of leftovers. This little trick works wonders!

Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Your fried chicken will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy that crispy goodness for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, you’ll want to restore that crispy exterior. The best method is to use your oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top (if you have one). This will allow air to circulate around the chicken. Arrange the chicken pieces on the rack and pop them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If you don’t have a rack, just place the chicken directly on the baking sheet, flipping halfway through for even heating.

Avoid using the microwave for reheating if you can help it, as it tends to make the coating soggy. But if you’re in a pinch, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to help steam while reheating—just know that you may sacrifice some of that crunch!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious KFC fried chicken recipe extra crispy even days after frying. Happy munching!