Homemade KFC Seasoning Recipe: The Secret 11 Herbs & Spices Blend

What if I told you that the secret behind KFC’s world-famous seasoning was accidentally leaked in a newspaper article? Yes, really! In 2016, the Chicago Tribune published an article that sent KFC lovers into a frenzy. The REAL Secret KFC Seasoning Recipe!

During an interview, Joe Lexington, the nephew of Colonel Harland Sanders, pulled out a family photo album that once belonged to his aunt, Claudia—who just happened to be the Colonel’s second wife. As they leafed through the pages, they stumbled upon Claudia’s handwritten will. And at the end? A recipe for 11 herbs and spices—the secret KFC seasoning blend!

Naturally, the Tribune tested the recipe, and guess what? It was spot on! Now, you can recreate that legendary KFC flavor at home with this copycat spice blend. Whether you’re making fried tofu chicken, vegan cauliflower wings, or seasoning fries and popcorn, this mix is guaranteed to bring the crispy, golden, finger-licking-good magic to your kitchen.

Best KFC seasoning copycat ever

When I first stumbled across that leaked KFC recipe in the Chicago Tribune article, I practically dropped my phone in excitement. As someone who’s been trying to perfect plant-based versions of classic comfort foods, getting my hands on Colonel Sanders’ closely guarded secret felt like finding the Holy Grail of flavor. I immediately took a screenshot and made a shopping list, determined to recreate that iconic taste for my homemade cauliflower wings.

The handwritten recipe with its mysterious “11 herbs and spices” had always been the stuff of culinary legend. I remember gathering all the ingredients with the kind of reverence usually reserved for following an ancient family recipe. There was something thrilling about measuring out thyme, basil, and celery salt, knowing I was following the same formula that had made KFC a global phenomenon.

My first attempt at the seasoning mix was… well, let’s just say it was underwhelming. After carefully coating my cauliflower pieces and baking them to golden perfection, I took that first anticipated bite and felt immediate disappointment. The flavor was there, but barely – just a whisper of what should have been that bold, unmistakable KFC taste. Something was definitely off.

I went back to the recipe, scrutinizing every detail, when it hit me. The handwritten abbreviation “Ts” that I’d interpreted as teaspoons was actually meant to be tablespoons! No wonder my mix lacked that depth of flavor – I’d been drastically under-seasoning. It was like trying to fill a swimming pool with a water gun.

Getting the recipe just right

With renewed determination, I mixed up a second batch, this time properly reading “Ts” as tablespoons for ingredients like paprika (a whopping 4 tablespoons!), garlic salt, white pepper, and that distinctive touch of ginger. The difference in volume was immediately apparent – this was a serious spice blend, not the timid mixture I’d made before.

The moment those properly seasoned cauliflower wings came out of the oven, the aroma alone told me I’d cracked the code. That first bite was a revelation – crispy coating giving way to tender cauliflower, all enveloped in that complex, savory flavor that somehow managed to be both familiar and impossible to fully deconstruct. I’d finally nailed it – that unmistakable KFC essence but in my own kitchen and completely plant-based!

Now, this seasoning mix has become a staple in my kitchen. I keep a jar ready to go for impromptu game day gatherings or whenever that comfort food craving strikes. Friends who swear they could never give up traditional fried chicken have been known to reach for seconds and thirds of my cauliflower wings, often not realizing they’re plant-based until I tell them.

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about recreating such an iconic flavor at home. It’s like being in on a delicious secret – one that the Colonel kept under lock and key for decades. Every time I sprinkle that paprika-red mixture onto a batch of cauliflower, I still get a little thrill knowing I’m tapping into a piece of fast-food history, but with my own healthier, plant-based twist. Who knew that misreading a recipe would lead to such a delicious discovery?

Why You’ll Love This Homemade KFC Seasoning

• Authentic Flavor – Based on the leaked KFC spice blend published by the Chicago Tribune.
• Easy to Make – Just measure, mix, and store for future use!
• Versatile Uses – Perfect for fried chicken, roasted veggies, fries, popcorn, and even tofu.
• Customizable – Adjust the heat and salt levels to suit your taste.
• No Artificial Preservatives – Unlike store-bought seasonings, this blend is pure and natural.

What is KFC’s Secret Seasoning?

KFC’s famous 11 herbs and spices blend has been a closely guarded secret for decades—until one family photo album changed everything. According to Joe Lexington, this handwritten recipe was passed down from Claudia Sanders (the Colonel’s second wife). The Chicago Tribune tested it, and it turned out to be the real deal!

This mix includes a blend of paprika, garlic salt, white pepper, dry mustard, and more, giving KFC its signature crispy coating and bold, savory taste. Now, you can make it at home and use it on cauliflower “chicken”, fries, vegetables, and even snacks like popcorn.

Homemade KFC Seasoning Recipe

Unlock the secret behind the iconic flavor of Kentucky Fried Chicken with this legendary seasoning blend! This is the original KFC recipe, famously leaked in a Chicago Tribune article, and it’s been recreated here for you to make at home. With its perfect balance of herbs, spices, and a touch of heat, this mix will transform your fried chicken into a crispy, golden, and finger-licking-good masterpiece. Whether you’re coating cauliflower wings, fries, or even popcorn, this blend brings the unmistakable taste of KFC to your kitchen.

DIY KFC Spice mix Ingredients

To create this authentic KFC spice mix, you’ll need:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour – The base for coating.
• 2 tsp (10 g) table salt – Enhances flavor.
• 1 ½ tsp (1.5 g) dried thyme – Adds subtle earthiness.
• 1 ½ tsp (1.5 g) dried basil – Provides a hint of sweetness.
• 4 tbsp (28 g) paprika – Gives color and smoky depth.
• 1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano – Infuses bold, herbal notes.
• 1 tbsp (10 g) celery salt – A key ingredient for that classic KFC tang.
• 2 tbsp (20 g) garlic salt – Balances savory and aromatic flavors.
• 1 tbsp (6 g) black pepper – Adds mild heat and spice.
• 1 tbsp (8 g) dry mustard powder – Boosts umami richness.
• 3 tbsp (18 g) white pepper – The secret weapon for KFC’s signature kick.
• 1 tbsp (6 g) ground ginger – Provides a subtle, warming flavor.
• 1 tbsp (10 g) MSG (optional) – For that authentic umami boost!

How to Make the Original KFC Seasoning

Step 1: Mix the Spices

• In a small bowl, combine all the herbs and spices. Break up any clumps to ensure a smooth, even mixture.

Second step: Blend with Flour

• In a large mixing bowl, add the flour. Gradually incorporate the spice blend, stirring thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 3: Use or Store

• Use immediately as a seasoned flour coating for fried foods.
• Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Pro Tip: Shake well before each use to keep the flavors evenly mixed!

How to Use KFC Seasoning (Vegetarian & Vegan Options Included!)

This copycat KFC spice mix isn’t just for chicken! Try it in these vegetarian and vegan-friendly recipes:

• Crispy Cauliflower Wings – Coat cauliflower florets with this blend and air-fry or bake for a crunchy, plant-based snack.
• KFC-Style Popcorn – Sprinkle over freshly popped popcorn for a savory, spicy kick.
• Seasoned Fries or Potato Wedges – Toss with oven-roasted fries for that classic fast-food taste.
• KFC-Spiced Chickpeas – Roast chickpeas with olive oil and this seasoning for a protein-packed snack.
• Vegan Fried “Chicken” – Use on tofu, jackfruit, or seitan for a plant-based KFC-inspired meal.

Expert Tips for the Best KFC Seasoning Recipe

1. For Extra Crispy Coating – Double-coat your food by dipping in seasoned flour, plant-based milk, then flour again before frying.
2. Make it Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of wheat flour.
3. Customize the Spice Level – Adjust the white pepper and cayenne for more or less heat.
4. Enhance the Tangy Flavor – Add a small amount of citric acid powder or vinegar powder for a sharper taste.
5. Use as a Dry Rub – Try it as a dry rub on grilled tofu, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.

Storage & Shelf Life

• Stored properly, this seasoning lasts for up to 6 months.
• Keep it in an airtight spice jar in a cool, dry place.
• If using fresh ingredients (like fresh garlic or onion powder), refrigerate and use within 1-2 weeks.

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Homemade KFC Spice Blend Tips and extra Info

KFC Seasoning Recipe Final Thoughts

This Homemade KFC Seasoning Recipe is the ultimate copycat spice blend, based on the leaked Chicago Tribune recipe! With its bold herbs, spices, and umami-rich depth, it’s perfect for fried chicken, cauliflower wings, fries, and more.

Make a batch today and enjoy the iconic KFC flavor in your own kitchen!

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