The Legacy of KFC’s Original Recipe
The KFC breading is part of a larger story that began in the 1930s with Colonel Harland Sanders, who developed his famous "Original Recipe" of 11 herbs and spices. The original blend has remained a well-kept secret, with only a few people knowing the precise ingredients and their quantities. This mystery has sparked the curiosity of food lovers, leading to various attempts to decipher the blend.
Key Components of the Breading
While the exact ingredients in KFC’s breading are unknown, several key components contribute to its distinct taste and texture. These include:
Flour: The base of any good breading is flour. KFC uses a blend of all-purpose flour to create a light and crispy coating.
Seasonings: The magic in KFC's breading comes from its seasoning. The specific blend of 11 herbs and spices has never been confirmed, but it likely includes ingredients such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and more.
Buttermilk: Some recipes call for marinating the chicken in buttermilk before breading. This step helps tenderize the meat and allows the breading to adhere better.
Double Dredging: KFC's breading is known for its thick, crunchy texture. This is achieved by double-dredging the chicken, which means coating it in flour, dipping it in a liquid (like egg or buttermilk), and then coating it again in flour.
Popular KFC Copycat Recipes
Over the years, many cooks and food enthusiasts have attempted to recreate the KFC breading at home. While these recipes may not be identical to the original, they come pretty close and deliver that delicious, crispy, and flavorful fried chicken experience.
Here are a few popular copycat recipes:
1. Simple KFC Copycat Breading Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 tablespoon salt
1/2 tablespoon thyme
1/2 tablespoon basil
1/3 tablespoon oregano
1 tablespoon celery salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried mustard
4 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons garlic salt
1 tablespoon ground ginger
3 tablespoons white pepper
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the herbs and spices with the flour. Mix well to ensure an even distribution.
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Dip each piece in buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off.
Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For a thicker coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it again in the flour mixture.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
Drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve hot and enjoy!
2. KFC Extra Crispy Copycat Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon MSG (optional, for an authentic taste)
Buttermilk for marinating
Egg wash (2 eggs beaten with 2 tablespoons water)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, white pepper, black pepper, chili powder, sage, basil, marjoram, oregano, thyme, baking powder, and MSG.
Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Dip the marinated chicken pieces in the egg wash, then coat them thoroughly with the flour mixture. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 15-18 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack.
Serve and savor the extra crispy goodness!
3. Oven-Baked KFC Copycat Recipe
For those who prefer a healthier alternative to frying, this oven-baked version still delivers a crispy, flavorful result without the extra oil.
Ingredients:
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon baking powder
Buttermilk for marinating
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with all the herbs, spices, and baking powder. Mix well.
Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Dip the marinated chicken pieces in the beaten egg, then coat them with the panko mixture.
Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect KFC-Style Fried Chicken
Temperature Control: Maintaining the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) is crucial for even cooking and achieving a crispy exterior without burning.
Resting the Chicken: After dredging the chicken, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better.
Oil Selection: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like peanut oil, for frying. This prevents the chicken from absorbing unwanted flavors.
Do Not Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Seasoning Layers: Season the chicken itself, not just the breading. This ensures flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
Recreating KFC’s breading recipe at home is a fun and rewarding experience, even if the exact blend of 11 herbs and spices remains elusive. By experimenting with different combinations of spices and techniques, you can achieve a delicious and crispy fried chicken that rivals the original. Whether you prefer a classic version, an extra crispy style, or a healthier baked option, these recipes provide a great starting point for your culinary adventure. So, roll up your sleeves, get your oil hot, and start frying!
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