Copycat Kfc Seasoning Recipe

The Secret Copycat KFC Seasoning Recipe Everyone Craves

Spice up your home cooking with a homemade KFC seasoning that rivals the original restaurant blend.

This secret copycat KFC seasoning recipe delivers that legendary crispy, flavorful coating you’ve been dreaming about.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike swear by this simple mixture of herbs and spices.

Each carefully measured ingredient contributes to an authentic taste that will transport you straight to Kentucky.

The blend works perfectly on chicken, creating a crunchy exterior that seals in juicy, tender meat.

Salt, paprika, and a mix of ground herbs come together in perfect harmony.

You’ll be amazed at how closely this seasoning matches the iconic KFC flavor profile.

Bring restaurant-quality crunch to your kitchen with this game-changing recipe.

FAQs

  • What are the key spices in this KFC seasoning blend?

The key spices include thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, dried mustard, paprika, garlic salt, ground ginger, and white pepper.

  • Can I adjust the seasoning mix to my taste?

Yes, you can customize the blend by slightly increasing or decreasing specific spices based on your flavor preference.

  • How long will this homemade seasoning last?

When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the seasoning will remain fresh and flavorful for several months.

  • Is this seasoning blend gluten-free?

Most of the individual spices are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels of your specific spice brands to confirm.

Copycat KFC Seasoning That Brings the Flavor Home

  • Tackle Complex Flavors Easily: Combine Cajun seasoning with creamy sauce for a restaurant-quality meal that tastes sophisticated but requires minimal culinary skills.
  • Perfect Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with protein from chicken and shrimp, this pasta satisfies diverse taste preferences and keeps everyone happy during dinner.
  • Quick Weeknight Dinner Solution: One-pan recipe with straightforward cooking steps allows busy home cooks to prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Customize Your Spice Level: Adjustable heat through Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes lets each person control their preferred spiciness, making it adaptable for different palates.

Ingredients for Copycat KFC Seasoning

Spice Blend:
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the seasoning mix.
  • Thyme, Basil, Oregano: Herbs that provide a classic, aromatic herbal base.
  • Celery Salt: Adds a savory and slightly tangy undertone to the seasoning.
Ground Spices:
  • Black Pepper: Brings a sharp and warm spiciness to the blend.
  • Dried Mustard: Contributes a tangy and sharp flavor profile.
  • Paprika: Offers a mild, sweet pepper taste with a rich red color.
  • Garlic Salt: Provides a robust garlic flavor with additional saltiness.
  • Ground Ginger: Introduces a warm and slightly spicy note.
  • White Pepper: Delivers a milder, more subtle pepper heat.

How to Make Copycat KFC Seasoning

Step 1: Gather Fragrant Spice Blend

Collect these aromatic ingredients to create the legendary KFC-style seasoning:
  • Salt
  • Thyme
  • Basil
  • Oregano
  • Celery salt
  • Black pepper
  • Dried mustard
  • Paprika
  • Garlic salt
  • Ground ginger
  • White pepper

Step 2: Blend Spice Symphony

Pour all the spices into a small mixing bowl. Use a whisk or spoon to thoroughly combine the ingredients, ensuring every pinch of spice is evenly distributed.

The key is to create a harmonious mixture where no single spice overpowers another.

Step 3: Seal and Preserve Flavor

Transfer the freshly mixed seasoning into an airtight container.

Choose a glass jar or sealed container that will protect the blend from moisture and light. Store in a cool, dark pantry or kitchen cabinet to maintain the vibrant flavors.

Step 4: Elevate Your Cooking

Sprinkle this homemade seasoning on roasted chicken, crispy french fries, grilled vegetables, or any dish craving that signature southern-style taste.

The blend works magic on proteins, adding depth and excitement to your everyday meals with a restaurant-quality twist.

Pro Tips for Copycat KFC Seasoning

  • Sift all spices through a fine-mesh strainer to ensure ultra-smooth, even distribution without clumps for perfect seasoning coverage.
  • Grind whole spices just before mixing to enhance aromatic oils and intensify the seasoning's robust flavor profile.
  • Reduce salt content by replacing some salt with additional herbs if you're watching sodium intake without compromising taste.
  • Keep seasoning away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain the vibrant flavor and prevent spice degradation over time.
  • Experiment by using this blend as a dry rub for meats, sprinkle on roasted vegetables, or mix into marinades for an extra flavor kick.

Variations on Copycat KFC Seasoning

  • Low-Sodium Spice Blend: Reduce salt content by using salt substitutes or herbs like rosemary and thyme for flavor without sodium.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Ensure all spices are certified gluten-free and check ingredient sources to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Herb-Focused Seasoning: Replace some spices with fresh herbs like sage, parsley, and chives for a garden-fresh taste profile.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder to create a hot and zesty seasoning blend.

What to Serve with Copycat KFC Seasoning

  • Spice Up Your Flavor Journey: Perfect Pairings for KFC-Style Seasoning
  • Crisp Chicken Companions: Serve alongside creamy coleslaw and golden cornbread for a classic Southern-style meal that amplifies the seasoning's zesty profile.
  • Wine and Dine Delight: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pilsner beer to complement the herbs and cut through the seasoning's rich, bold flavors.
  • Dipping Sauce Magic: Create tangy ranch, spicy honey mustard, or cool blue cheese dip to elevate the seasoning's complexity and add exciting taste layers.
  • Side Dish Sensation: Roast sweet potato wedges or create a fresh garden salad to balance the seasoning's intense spice profile and provide a refreshing contrast.

Storing Copycat KFC Seasoning

  • Transfer seasoning to a clean, sealed glass jar or spice container with tight-fitting lid to preserve freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
  • Keep in a cool, dark pantry away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which helps maintain potency and prevents spice degradation.
  • While not necessary, storing in the refrigerator can extend shelf life up to 6 months, protecting spices from humidity and potential insect contamination.
  • For maximum longevity, seal seasoning in a vacuum-sealed bag or freezer-safe container, which can preserve flavor and quality for up to 1 year.
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Copycat Kfc Seasoning Recipe

Copycat Kfc Seasoning Recipe


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4.5 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Savor southern charm with this copycat KFC seasoning that brings Kentucky’s legendary flavor right to your kitchen. Crispy, golden-crusted chicken promises a nostalgic culinary journey you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Spices and Herbs:

  • 4 teaspoons paprika
  • 3 teaspoons white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon basil
  • 1/3 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon dried mustard

Salts:

  • 2 teaspoons garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon celery salt
  • 2/3 teaspoon salt

Blended Seasoning:

  • No additional ingredients

Instructions

  1. Gather all spices including salt, thyme, basil, oregano, celery salt, black pepper, dried mustard, paprika, garlic salt, ground ginger, and white pepper in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Carefully whisk the spices together, ensuring each ingredient is thoroughly integrated and no clumps remain.
  3. Transfer the blended seasoning mixture into a clean, sealed glass container or airtight spice jar.
  4. Store the seasoning blend in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  5. When ready to use, generously sprinkle the homemade seasoning over chicken, potatoes, or other dishes to achieve a signature crispy and flavorful coating reminiscent of KFC’s classic taste.
  6. The seasoning blend will maintain optimal flavor and potency for approximately 3-4 months when stored properly.

Notes

  • Try adjusting the salt levels to create a lower-sodium version that still packs incredible flavor.
  • Toast whole spices briefly before grinding to enhance their aromatic oils and deepen the overall taste profile.
  • Create a gluten-free variation by ensuring all individual spices are certified gluten-free, perfect for sensitive diets.
  • Customize the blend’s heat by increasing white or black pepper for those who enjoy a spicier kick to their seasoning.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 2 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0.4 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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