Description
Fried chicken wings are a favorite comfort food, especially when they’re crispy and packed with flavor. Who can resist the allure of KFC-style chicken wings? Now, you can recreate that finger-lickin’ good experience in your own kitchen.
With a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you’ll learn how to make KFC chicken wings at home—golden, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Whether you prefer spicy or classic flavors, this recipe will show you exactly how to achieve the perfect KFC crispy chicken wings.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Authentic KFC Chicken Wings
To make homemade KFC-style chicken wings, you’ll need a blend of flour, buttermilk, and spices. Buttermilk helps tenderize the meat, while the flour and spices create that signature crunchy crust.
Ingredient List
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken wings | 2 pounds |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
Why These Ingredients Work
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.
- Flour mix with spices: Creates the signature crispy KFC-style coating.
- Paprika, garlic, and onion powder: Mimic the KFC spice blend.
Instructions
Mastering the Perfect Coating and Seasoning Technique
Achieving the crispy KFC-style breading requires mastering the right coating and seasoning techniques.
Step 1: Creating the Signature KFC Breading Mix
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- For extra crispiness, add cornstarch or baking powder.
Step 2: Proper Marination Methods
- Soak the chicken wings in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (preferably overnight).
- The acidity in buttermilk tenderizes the meat, making it juicy inside.
Step 3: The Double-Dredging Secret
- Coat wings in flour mix, dip in buttermilk again, then coat with flour mix a second time.
- This creates a thicker, crunchier crust—just like KFC fried chicken wings.
Best Cooking Methods for Crispy, Juicy Chicken Wings
The cooking method makes all the difference when replicating KFC chicken wings at home.
Method 1: Deep-Frying (Most Authentic) 🔥
✔️ Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
✔️ Fry the wings for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
✔️ Drain on a wire rack (not paper towels) to keep them crispy.
Method 2: Baking (Healthier Alternative) 🍗
✔️ Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
✔️ Arrange wings on a greased baking rack.
✔️ Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
Method 3: Air-Frying (Crispy with Less Oil) ⚡
✔️ Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
✔️ Cook wings for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Each method can give you delicious, crispy fried chicken wings—choose the one that fits your style!