Kansas Fried Chicken Recipe: How to Make the Best Fried Chicken at Home
If you want to enjoy Kansas Fried Chicken at home, you’re in the right place! This recipe will guide you step by step, so you can make crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken right in your own kitchen. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have restaurant-quality chicken in no time.
Ingredients
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1 whole chicken (cut into pieces: thighs, drumsticks, wings, breasts)
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2 cups buttermilk
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon salt
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1 tablespoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon paprika (for color and mild heat)
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spiciness)
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispy texture)
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Vegetable oil (for frying, about 4-5 cups depending on your pot size)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
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Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
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In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight for better flavor and tenderness. This will make the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
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In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (optional), onion powder, and baking powder. Mix them well. This seasoned flour will give your chicken the flavor and crispy texture that Kansas Fried Chicken is known for.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
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Remove the chicken from the buttermilk. Shake off any excess liquid but do not rinse it.
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Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Press the flour onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
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In a large, heavy pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
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Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, a few at a time. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy chicken.
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Fry the chicken pieces for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
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Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices settle and keep the chicken crispy.
Tips for the Best Kansas Fried Chicken
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Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen chicken if possible.
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Do not skip the buttermilk marinade. It adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
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Keep the oil temperature steady. Too hot, and the chicken will burn on the outside and remain raw inside. Too cold, and the chicken will be greasy.
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Rest the chicken after frying. This helps retain the crispiness and prevents it from getting soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Kansas Fried Chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include:
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French fries
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Biscuits
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Coleslaw
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Mashed potatoes
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Corn on the cob
For drinks, you can’t go wrong with iced tea or a cold soda.
Final Thoughts
Making Kansas Fried Chicken at home is fun and rewarding. With the right ingredients and a little practice, you’ll be able to enjoy the best fried chicken without leaving your house. Serve it hot, crispy, and golden, and watch your friends and family ask for seconds.
