10/31/2026
Homemade Extra Crispy Fried Chicken (KFC-Style)
Golden, crunchy, juicy and flavourful fried chicken with a delicious crispy coating, just like your favourite fast-food fried chicken!
Ingredients
For the chicken
• 1 kg chicken pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk (240ml)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning powder
• Salt to taste
For the crispy coating
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
• ½ cup cornflour (60g)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For frying
• Vegetable oil, as needed
Instructions
Marinate the chicken
Wash and pat the chicken dry. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ginger, black pepper, white pepper, seasoning powder and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours or overnight for better flavour.
Prepare the coating
In a large bowl, combine flour, cornflour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, white pepper, thyme, baking powder, salt and cayenne pepper.
Mix thoroughly.
Coat the chicken
Remove each chicken piece from the marinade and place it into the seasoned flour.
Press the flour firmly onto the chicken to create a rough, flaky coating.
For extra crunch, dip the coated chicken briefly into the marinade again and coat with flour a second time.
Arrange the coated chicken on a tray and allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes.
Fry the chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to about 165–175°C.
Carefully add the chicken pieces without overcrowding the pot.
Fry over medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown and completely cooked inside.
Depending on the size of the pieces, frying may take approximately 12–18 minutes. Use a food thermometer to ensure the thickest part reaches 74°C.
Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken
• Use cornflour to achieve a lighter, crispier crust.
• Press the flour firmly onto the chicken.
• Add a little marinade to the flour and rub to create crunchy flakes.
• Avoid overcrowding the frying pot.
• Maintain the correct oil temperature.
• Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.