Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

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Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven: The Crispy Comfort at Home

Who doesn’t love the crispy, juicy, and flavorful taste of KFC chicken? That golden crust with a savory blend of herbs and spices is a universal comfort food. But what if you could enjoy the same crunchy satisfaction—without deep-frying? That’s right. You can make oven-baked KFC-style chicken at home, with fewer calories and the same iconic taste. This detailed guide will walk you through the history, ingredients, health benefits, preparation method, and more.

History of KFC Chicken

KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders during the Great Depression. With his secret recipe of “11 herbs and spices,” he changed the way people thought about fried chicken. The recipe became one of the world’s most famous culinary secrets, and since then, food lovers have tried to recreate it at home with various interpretations.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 kg chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or mixed parts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Coating (KFC-style spice blend):

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp celery salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • ½ tsp mustard powder
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil spray or melted butter (for brushing)

Health Benefits

  • Lower fat: Baking instead of deep-frying reduces oil absorption.
  • Protein-rich: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair.
  • Customizable spices: Homemade version lets you adjust the salt and seasoning to your taste and dietary needs.
  • No preservatives: Unlike fast food, homemade chicken is free from additives.

Preparation & Marination Method

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • Mix the buttermilk with salt.
    • Add chicken pieces and coat them well.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  3. Prepare the Coating:
    • Mix all the spices with the flour in a large bowl.
    • Adjust seasoning to taste.

Cooking Method (Baking in the Oven)

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
  2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or use a rack for better circulation.
  3. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge.
  4. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mix. Press the flour onto the chicken to form a thick crust.
  5. Place the chicken on the tray or rack.
  6. Spray lightly with olive oil or brush with melted butter to help browning.
  7. Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temp of 75°C (165°F).
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 420mg

Formation and Presentation

Serve your oven-baked KFC-style chicken with:

  • Mashed potatoes or fries
  • Coleslaw
  • Corn on the cob
  • A dipping sauce (BBQ, honey mustard, or spicy mayo)

Presentation matters! Stack the chicken in a rustic basket with parchment paper or serve it hot from the tray, family-style.

Lovers of KFC Chicken

People of all ages adore this dish—from kids who crave the crispy texture, to adults who love the nostalgic flavor of a good southern-style chicken. It’s a party favorite, family dinner centerpiece, and a comfort food classic.

Conclusion

This homemade oven-baked KFC chicken combines tradition, taste, and health. Whether you’re avoiding deep frying or just want to try something new in your kitchen, this recipe delivers bold flavors with a crispy texture that satisfies every craving. It’s more than just food—it’s a celebration of comfort and heritage.

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