KFC-Style Fried Chicken
Enjoy that signature spicy crunch using wholesome ingredients and heart-healthy fats for a guilt-free soul food experience.
- Cuisine American
- Course Main
- Prep 30 min
- Cook 15 min
- Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb organic chicken thighs, skinless
- 1 cup organic buttermilk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 cup organic almond flour
- 1/2 cup organic oat flour
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp raw honey (optional)
Clean swaps
How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.
- Canola or Soybean oil → Avocado oil — Eliminates inflammatory industrial seed oils in favor of monounsaturated fats.
- Refined white flour → Almond and Oat flours — Provides high fiber and protein content without processed wheat additives.
- Artificial MSG and flavorings → Smoked paprika and garlic — Uses whole-food spices to achieve deep savory flavors naturally.
Instructions
- Whisk the buttermilk, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Submerge the chicken thighs in the brine mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat.
- In a shallow tray, combine the almond flour and oat flour with an extra pinch of salt and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the brine, letting excess liquid drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture pressing firmly to create craggy texture.
- Heat the avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the chicken in the oil, frying for 6-8 minutes per side until the crust is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Drain on a wire rack for 2 minutes before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
FAQ
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, because we use almond and oat flour instead of wheat flour; however, ensure your oat flour is certified gluten-free.
How can I make it spicier?
Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 tsp or add a pinch of crushed red chili flakes to the almond flour coating.
Cooked it?
Mark it made — add a photo if you like.