The KFC chicken sandwich is a beloved favorite among fast food enthusiasts, and for good reason. The combination of crispy, juicy chicken, crunchy pickles, and creamy mayo on a soft bun is a match made in heaven. But what if you could recreate this mouthwatering masterpiece in the comfort of your own home? In this article, we’ll dive into the secrets of making a KFC chicken sandwich that’s so close to the original, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the drive-thru.
Understanding the Magic of KFC’s Original Recipe
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making a KFC chicken sandwich, it’s essential to understand the magic behind KFC’s original recipe. The secret blend of 11 herbs and spices has been a closely guarded secret for decades, but we can make an educated guess about the key ingredients that make it so special.
KFC’s original recipe is a masterclass in balance and harmony. The combination of salty, sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. To replicate this at home, we’ll need to focus on the following key ingredients:
- Paprika: This sweet and smoky spice is a staple of KFC’s original recipe. Look for high-quality paprika that’s rich in flavor and aroma.
- Garlic salt: A combination of garlic powder and salt, garlic salt adds a savory depth to the chicken that’s hard to resist.
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch of heat is essential to balancing out the richness of the chicken. Cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick that will leave you wanting more.
- Thyme: This herbaceous spice adds a subtle earthy note to the chicken that complements the other flavors perfectly.
The Importance of Breading and Pressure Frying
Now that we have our secret blend of herbs and spices, it’s time to talk about the importance of breading and pressure frying. KFC’s chicken is famous for its crispy, golden-brown exterior, and this is achieved through a combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a pressure fryer.
To replicate this at home, you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: A light dusting of flour helps the breading adhere to the chicken and creates a crispy texture.
- Cornstarch: This starchy powder helps to create a crunchy exterior that’s similar to KFC’s original recipe.
- Pressure fryer: If you don’t have a pressure fryer, don’t worry! You can still achieve great results with a deep fryer or even a large pot of oil on the stovetop.
How to Make the Perfect Breading Station
To create the perfect breading station, you’ll need three shallow dishes:
| Dish | Contents |
| — | — |
| 1 | All-purpose flour |
| 2 | Beaten eggs |
| 3 | Breading mixture (cornstarch, paprika, garlic salt, cayenne pepper, thyme) |
Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat completely. Finally, roll the egg-coated chicken in the breading mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
Assembling the Perfect KFC Chicken Sandwich
Now that we have our breaded and fried chicken, it’s time to assemble the perfect KFC chicken sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Soft bun: Look for a soft, white bun that’s similar to KFC’s original recipe.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles add a tangy crunch to the sandwich that’s essential to the KFC experience.
- Mayo: A dollop of creamy mayo helps to balance out the flavors and add moisture to the sandwich.
- Lettuce and tomato: Optional, but recommended for added freshness and flavor.
To assemble the sandwich, place a few slices of pickle on the bottom bun, followed by a piece of fried chicken. Add a dollop of mayo, a lettuce leaf, and a tomato slice (if using). Top with the top bun and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations for the Ultimate KFC Chicken Sandwich
Here are a few tips and variations to take your KFC chicken sandwich to the next level:
- Use a thermometer: To ensure your oil is at the perfect temperature (350°F), use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Don’t overbread: Too much breading can make the chicken taste greasy and overwhelming. Use a light hand when applying the breading mixture.
- Experiment with spices: While KFC’s original recipe is a closely guarded secret, feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Try different types of chicken: While KFC’s original recipe uses chicken breast, you can also use chicken thighs or tenders for a different texture and flavor.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating a KFC chicken sandwich that’s so close to the original, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the drive-thru. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic of KFC’s original recipe for yourself!
What is the secret recipe for KFC chicken?
The secret recipe for KFC chicken is a blend of 11 herbs and spices that Colonel Harland Sanders developed in the 1940s. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but it is believed to contain a combination of salt, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, mustard, paprika, garlic salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika. To make a KFC-style chicken sandwich at home, you can use a similar blend of herbs and spices.
To get the flavor just right, it’s also important to use the right type of chicken. KFC uses a pressure fryer to cook their chicken, which helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior. At home, you can achieve a similar effect by using a skillet or deep fryer to cook the chicken. Be sure to use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature, and don’t overcrowd the skillet or fryer basket.
What type of chicken is best for a KFC-style sandwich?
For a KFC-style chicken sandwich, you’ll want to use a type of chicken that is tender and juicy. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, as they are easy to bread and fry. You can also use chicken tenders or chicken strips if you prefer. Look for chicken that is fresh and of high quality, and be sure to handle it safely to avoid contamination.
When preparing the chicken, be sure to pound it to an even thickness so that it cooks evenly. This will help to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a similar mixture to add extra flavor and tenderness.
How do I bread the chicken for a KFC-style sandwich?
To bread the chicken for a KFC-style sandwich, you’ll need a mixture of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and spices. The exact recipe may vary, but a good starting point is to mix together 1 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of salt. You can also add other spices and herbs to the breading mixture to give it extra flavor.
To bread the chicken, dip each piece in the breading mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the breaded chicken in a mixture of eggs and buttermilk, and finally coat it in the breading mixture again. This will help to create a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Be sure to press the breading mixture onto the chicken to help it stick.
What type of oil is best for frying the chicken?
For frying the chicken, you’ll want to use a type of oil that has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. Peanut oil or vegetable oil work well, as they have a high smoke point and won’t add any strong flavors to the chicken. You can also use lard or beef tallow if you prefer a more traditional flavor.
When heating the oil, be sure to use a thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct temperature. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside of the chicken will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and be greasy.
How do I assemble the KFC-style chicken sandwich?
To assemble the KFC-style chicken sandwich, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Start with a soft, white bun, such as a brioche or a sesame seed bun. Then, add a few slices of pickle and a lettuce leaf or two. Next, add the fried chicken breast or thigh, and top it with a slice of cheese and a dollop of mayonnaise or sauce.
Be sure to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the chicken will be hot and the bun will be soft. You can also add other toppings to the sandwich, such as tomato or onion, to give it extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the sandwich, as this can make it difficult to eat.
Can I make a KFC-style chicken sandwich in the oven instead of frying it?
Yes, you can make a KFC-style chicken sandwich in the oven instead of frying it. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare the chicken as you would for frying. Then, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is crispy.
Keep in mind that the oven method will produce a slightly different texture and flavor than frying, but it can still be delicious. You can also use a combination of baking and broiling to get a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Just be sure to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks, as it can burn easily.
How do I store leftover KFC-style chicken sandwiches?
To store leftover KFC-style chicken sandwiches, be sure to cool the chicken to room temperature first. Then, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to 2 months, but be sure to thaw them slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating the sandwiches, be sure to use a low heat to prevent the breading from burning. You can reheat the sandwiches in the oven or in a skillet, and serve them hot. Just be sure to check the chicken for any signs of spoilage before reheating, as leftover chicken can be a food safety risk if not handled properly.