Kentucky Fried Chicken's iconic Wings feature tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a signature blend of 11 herbs and spices, fried to golden perfection with a crispy, flavorful crust that delivers a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Tray for dredging
- Colander or strainer
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon MSG (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
When preparing your chicken wings, be sure to coat them evenly with the flour mixture containing the precise blend of 11 herbs and spices, including celery salt, paprika, garlic powder, and white pepper, to achieve authentic flavor. Use a deep fryer heated to the correct temperature for frying the wings to a crispy golden crust without overcooking the tender, juicy meat inside. Incorporate buttermilk and eggs in the batter to ensure the coating adheres well and adds extra moisture to the wings. Monitor the oil temperature and frying time closely with a meat thermometer to maintain safety and desired crispness. Your homemade Kentucky Fried Chicken copycat wings will boast the same crunchy texture and signature seasoning that fans love.
Instructions
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C); set wire rack over baking sheet.
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, basil, thyme, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, dried mustard, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, white pepper, and MSG.
- Dip chicken wings into buttermilk mixture, coating well.
- Dredge wings in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place coated wings on tray; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Fry wings in small batches for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove wings with tongs; drain on wire rack over baking sheet or on paper towels.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Kentucky Fried Chicken copycat wings deliver a perfect balance of crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy meat, flavored with a distinctive blend of 11 herbs and spices. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF to ensure the wings cook evenly without becoming greasy. Your wings can be finished on a wire rack over a baking sheet after frying to keep the texture crispy and prevent sogginess. For a spice variation, try incorporating cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to tailor the flavor profile to your preference.
Tips
Ensure chicken wings are thoroughly dried with paper towels before dipping to help the flour mixture adhere better, resulting in a crispier crust. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness. Allow the coated wings to rest for 10 minutes before frying to let the flour mixture set, which enhances the crunchiness. Use small batches while frying at 350degF (175degC) to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy wings in Your Kentucky Fried Chicken-style wings.
Nutritions
Kentucky Fried Chicken's Wings are rich in protein from the 2 lbs of chicken, providing essential amino acids important for muscle maintenance and repair. The breading made from 2 cups of all-purpose flour contributes carbohydrates, while the extensive use of herbs like basil, thyme, oregano, and spices adds negligible calories but enhances flavor and potential antioxidant benefits. Frying in vegetable oil increases the calorie and fat content, making these wings higher in saturated and trans fats depending on the oil quality. Your portion will deliver satisfying energy but should be enjoyed in moderation due to the frying process and sodium content from seasoning blends.
Storage
Store your Kentucky Fried Chicken wings in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze the wings on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring no air remains to prevent freezer burn. Reheat thoroughly in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) until the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) to preserve their crispy texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap buttermilk with plain yogurt to add a tangier flavor and tenderize the chicken differently. You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with cornstarch to achieve an even crispier crust. Infuse the oil with garlic cloves or rosemary during frying to introduce subtle aromatic notes. When serving, toss your wings in a honey sriracha glaze for a sweet-spicy twist that complements the original herb and spice blend.
Allergies
Kentucky Fried Chicken's Wings contain wheat flour, eggs, and buttermilk, all common allergens that could cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The presence of MSG and various spices may also trigger sensitivities or intolerances in some people. You should carefully review these ingredients if you have known allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
KFC's Wings menu delivers a perfect combination of crispy texture and bold, signature seasoning that satisfies diverse taste preferences. Each wing offers a juicy bite with a flavorful coating that balances savory spices and a hint of heat. You will find it worth making a copycat recipe to recreate the authentic taste at home, saving money while customizing spice levels to your preference. The popularity of KFC Wings lies in their crave-worthy flavor and convenient size, making them a popular snack or meal option worldwide.