Homemade KFC-Style Fried Chicken in the Oven

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, flavorful piece of fried chicken. While KFC has perfected their secret recipe, you can recreate that iconic taste at home—without deep frying! This oven-baked version delivers the same crispy, juicy goodness with less oil and mess.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• A step-by-step recipe for homemade KFC-style chicken

• Tips for achieving maximum crispiness

• Side dish pairings to complete your meal

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Homemade KFC-Style Oven-Fried Chicken

Prep Time: 30 minutes (+ 2 hours marinating)
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 3 lbs chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

• ½ tsp celery salt (optional, for authentic KFC flavor)

• ½ tsp mustard powder

Additional:

• ½ cup melted butter or vegetable oil (for brushing)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.

2. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a large shallow dish (or a resealable bag), mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne, celery salt, and mustard powder.

2. Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack for crispier results.

2. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.

3. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. For extra crunch, dip back into buttermilk and coat with flour a second time.

4. Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Lightly brush each piece with melted butter or oil.

2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).

Step 5: Rest & Serve

1. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

2. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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Tips for the Best Oven-Fried KFC Chicken

✅ Use a wire rack – Elevating the chicken helps air circulate, ensuring even crispiness.
✅ Double-dip for crunch – A second coating of buttermilk and flour adds extra texture.
✅ Don’t skip the marinade – Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and keeps it juicy.
✅ Broil briefly – A quick broil at the end enhances crispiness.

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Perfect Side Dishes to Pair

Complete your KFC-inspired meal with these classic sides:

1. Buttermilk Biscuits

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 12-15 mins | Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp salt

• 6 tbsp cold butter, cubed

• ¾ cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. Mix dry ingredients, then cut in butter until crumbly.

3. Stir in buttermilk until just combined.

4. Roll dough to 1-inch thickness, cut into rounds, and bake for 12-15 minutes.

2. Creamy Coleslaw

Prep Time: 10 mins | Chill Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage & carrots

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp sugar

• ½ tsp celery seeds

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss cabbage and carrots in a bowl.

2. Whisk remaining ingredients for dressing.

3. Combine and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

3. Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients (Potatoes):

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled & cubed

• ½ cup butter

• ½ cup milk

• Salt & pepper to taste

Ingredients (Gravy):

• 2 tbsp pan drippings (or butter)

• 2 tbsp flour

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk.

2. For gravy, cook flour in drippings, then whisk in broth until thickened.

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Final Thoughts

This homemade KFC-style oven-fried chicken delivers all the flavor and crunch of the original—without the deep fryer! With a well-seasoned coating and juicy interior, it’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or game-day gatherings.

Want it spicier? Add more cayenne or a dash of chili powder to the coating.
Prefer extra crispy? Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before baking.

Give this recipe a try, and you might just skip the drive-thru next time!

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Enjoy your homemade KFC feast! 🍗✨