CopyCat Kentucky Fried Chicken Marinade 🍗

Description:

Recreate the magic of Kentucky Fried Chicken with this CopyCat marinade recipe that promises to elevate your chicken to new heights of flavor! 🌟

Ingredients:

• 2 cups kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons MSG
• 4 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1/8 cup water
• 1/3 cup dried egg powder
• 5 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the kosher salt, MSG, and garlic powder. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Add Water:
   • Slowly pour the water into the mixture while stirring continuously. Ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly moistened. This creates a flavorful brine for your chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place your chicken pieces in a suitable container or a resealable plastic bag.
   • Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is completely submerged. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with the delicious flavors of the marinade.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
   • Cover the container or seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for a minimum of 24 hours. This extended marination time allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
5. Coat with Breading:
   • After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture from the surface of the chicken.
   • In a separate bowl, prepare the breading mixture by combining the dried egg powder and all-purpose flour.
   • Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with the breading mixture, ensuring an even coating all around. This step adds a crispy and flavorful crust to the chicken when fried.
6. Fry to Perfection:
   • Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot but not smoking.
   • Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
   • Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.
   • Serve hot and crispy with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
8. Bonus Tip:
   • For an extra flavorful twist, sprinkle the fried chicken with a pinch of the marinade mixture before serving. This adds an additional layer of seasoning and enhances the overall taste experience.

Chef’s Notes:

• The secret to the signature KFC flavor lies in the unique blend of spices and seasonings used in the marinade. While this CopyCat recipe comes close, it’s the marination process and frying technique that truly make the difference.
• Don’t be intimidated by the use of MSG in the recipe. MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly used in Asian cuisine and can add depth and richness to dishes when used in moderation.
• Experiment with different cuts of chicken, such as thighs, drumsticks, or breast fillets, to find your favorite combination. Each cut offers a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
• If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 4 hours, although the longer marination time is recommended for optimal flavor.
• Serve your CopyCat KFC chicken with classic sides like biscuits, gravy, and macaroni and cheese for a truly indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Now, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of homemade CopyCat Kentucky Fried Chicken! 🍗🍽️