I remember the first time I tasted Krispy Krunchy Chicken—it was love at first bite. The perfect balance of crispy coating and juicy meat always left me craving more. There’s something magical about recreating that fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen.
I’ve spent countless afternoons perfecting a copycat recipe that brings all the deliciousness without the restaurant price tag. From the secret blend of spices to achieving that golden, crunchy texture, this recipe covers it all. It’s simpler than you might think and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Spice Blend:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying
Equipment
To master the Krispy Krunchy Chicken copycat recipe, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Large Mixing Bowls: Perfect for marinating the chicken and combining dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent flavor and texture.
- Whisk: Helps blend the marinade smoothly.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Allows excess oil to drain and keeps the chicken crispy.
- Deep Frying Pan or Cast-Iron Skillet: Provides even heat distribution for optimal frying.
- Tongs: Essential for safely flipping and handling the hot chicken pieces.
- Paper Towels: Used to drain excess oil after frying.
- Food Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature.
- Plate or Tray: For dredging the chicken in the breading mixture.
- Baking Sheets: Useful if you choose to keep the chicken warm in the oven.
Having these tools ready will streamline the cooking process and help you achieve that delicious, crispy finish every time.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Krispy Krunchy Chicken at home. Each stage is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch and juicy flavor.
Prep
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups buttermilk with 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well blended. Add 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 2 cups crushed cornflakes. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon black pepper and 1 teaspoon salt. Set aside on a large plate or shallow dish.
- Set Up Equipment:
Gather your deep frying pan or cast-iron skillet and heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a food thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Line baking sheets with paper towels for draining excess oil after frying.
Coat Chicken
- Dredge the Chicken:
Remove each chicken thigh from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully coat each piece in the flour-cornflake mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even, thick coating. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crunch (Optional):
For an extra crispy texture, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and coat it again with the flour-cornflake mixture. This double dredging step enhances the crunchiness.
Fry Chicken
- Heat the Oil:
Ensure your oil is maintained at 350°F (175°C). Adjust the heat as needed to keep the temperature steady throughout the frying process.
- Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook each piece for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Serve:
Use tongs to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place them on the prepared paper towel-lined baking sheets. Allow excess oil to drain off. Serve your Krispy Krunchy Chicken hot, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and savory flavors you’ve recreated at home.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Krispy Krunchy Chicken ahead of time can save you valuable minutes on the day you plan to enjoy it. Here are my top tips to ensure your chicken stays fresh and crispy:
Marinate in Advance
- Extended Marinating: I like to marinate the chicken in the buttermilk and spice mixture overnight. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This deepens the flavors and makes the meat incredibly tender.
Breading Station Prep
- Pre-Mix Breading Ingredients: Combine the flour, cornstarch, and crushed cornflakes in a large bowl. Store this mixture in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This way, you won’t have to measure out each time you cook.
Batch Dredging
- Double Dredge Technique: After marinating, you can double dredge the chicken pieces. First, coat them in the flour mixture, let them rest for 15 minutes on a wire rack, then coat them again. This can be done a day ahead. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate.
Freezing Prepared Chicken
- Freeze Before Frying: Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
Storing Cooked Chicken
- Keep It Crispy: After frying, let the chicken cool completely on a wire rack. Store it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its crunch without drying it out.
Pre-Portioning Ingredients
- Measure Ahead: To streamline the cooking process, measure out all your spices and ingredients in advance. Use small containers or zip-top bags to portion the spice blend and breading mixture. Label them for easy identification when you’re ready to cook.
By following these make-ahead strategies, you can enjoy delicious Krispy Krunchy Chicken with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve perfected your Krispy Krunchy Chicken, it’s time to think about how to present it for the ultimate dining experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this crispy delight:
Classic Sides
Pair your chicken with traditional sides that complement its rich flavors.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
- Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes make a comforting side.
- Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread balances the savory chicken.
Finger-Friendly Options
For a more casual meal, opt for sides that are easy to enjoy with your hands.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and perfect for dipping.
- Pickles: Crunchy pickles add a zesty contrast.
- Celery Sticks: Fresh celery provides a light, crisp texture.
Flavorful Sauces
Enhance your chicken with a variety of sauces that elevate each bite.
- Spicy Buffalo Sauce: Add some heat with a tangy buffalo sauce.
- Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy honey mustard pairs perfectly.
- Garlic Parmesan: Rich garlic and Parmesan create a savory blend.
Refreshing Beverages
Complement your meal with drinks that wash down the delicious chicken.
- Iced Tea: Brewed iced tea is a classic choice.
- Lemonade: Fresh lemonade adds a sweet and tart note.
- Cold Beer: A chilled beer pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
Presentation Tips
Make your meal visually appealing with these simple presentation ideas.
- Serve on a Wooden Platter: A rustic wooden platter enhances the home-cooked feel.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Arrange Neatly: Neatly arrange the chicken pieces and sides for an inviting look.
Meal Combos
Create a complete meal by combining your chicken with selected sides and drinks.
| Combo Option | Sides | Beverage |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Feast | Mashed Potatoes, Creamy Coleslaw | Iced Tea |
| Casual Snack | French Fries, Pickles | Lemonade |
| Savory Delight | Cornbread, Garlic Parmesan Sauce | Cold Beer |
| Fresh and Light | Celery Sticks, Honey Mustard | Sparkling Water |
Experiment with these serving suggestions to find your perfect combination. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a solo meal, these ideas will help you savor every crispy, crunchy bite of your homemade Krispy Krunchy Chicken.
Conclusion
Making my own Krispy Krunchy Chicken has been such a rewarding experience. I love how crispy the coating turns out and how juicy the meat remains inside. It’s amazing to enjoy a restaurant favorite right at home. Plus it saves a few bucks and allows me to tweak the flavors to my liking. I hope you give this copycat recipe a try and enjoy every crunchy bite as much as I do. Happy cooking!
