KFC-Style Fried Chicken Recipe at Home (Healthier Version)



Craving the iconic crunch of KFC fried chicken but want a healthier homemade option? Good news—you can recreate that famous flavor and crispiness at home with better ingredients, less oil, and full control over seasoning. This recipe delivers golden, crunchy chicken with juicy meat inside, without relying on artificial additives or deep commercial frying.

Why Make KFC-Style Fried Chicken at Home?

  • ✅ Less oil, fewer calories

  • ✅ No preservatives or MSG

  • ✅ Adjustable spice level

  • ✅ Budget-friendly & fresh

  • ✅ Air-fryer or shallow-fry options

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 kg chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or breast pieces)

  • 1 cup low-fat buttermilk (or yogurt + water)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional)

For the Crispy Coating

  • 1½ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

  • 2 tbsp cornflour (for extra crunch)

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp white pepper (secret KFC-style touch)

  • ½ tsp baking powder

  • Salt to taste

For Cooking

  • Olive oil or sunflower oil (for shallow frying)
    OR

  • Cooking spray (for air fryer)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Marinate the Chicken

Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl, add chicken, and coat well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for juicy results).

2. Prepare the Coating

In a large bowl, combine all coating ingredients. Mix well so the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Coat Like KFC

Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to create flaky layers.
For extra crunch, dip again lightly in marinade and re-coat with flour.

Cooking Options

🔥 Option 1: Shallow Fry (Crispier)

  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

  • Fry chicken for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally.

  • Cook until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 75°C.

  • Drain on paper towels.

🌬️ Option 2: Air Fry (Healthiest)

  • Preheat air fryer to 180°C.

  • Spray chicken lightly with oil.

  • Air fry for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

  • Result: crispy outside, tender inside—using 80% less oil.

Healthy Tips

  • Use skinless chicken to reduce fat

  • Replace white flour with oat flour for extra fiber

  • Pair with baked sweet potato wedges instead of fries

  • Serve with yogurt-based garlic dip instead of mayo

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving – Air Fried)

  • Calories: 280–320

  • Protein: 28g

  • Fat: 10g

  • Carbs: 18g



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts