Original KFC 11 Secret Herbs And Spices

Recipe

The KFC 11 secret herbs and spices are the life and soul of the KFC fried chicken. The secret herbs and spices are what make the KFC chicken so special. They add the spicy warmth and herby freshness to the chicken. For years, this was KFC’s best-kept secret. But much to our joy and their dismay, this secret is out!

Today, I am going to tell you the 11 secret herbs and spices that you can add to make the recipe. Generally, 13 ingredients are used to make 11 herbs and spices. If you’re wondering how, let me tell you salt and msg added to the recipe are not herbs and spices. So, KFC tricks us by adding 13 components to prepare a recipe of 11 herbs and spices.

The seasoned flour will be the breading for your delicious homemade KFC chicken. You can make the spice rub ahead of time, then mix it with flour, brown sugar, and salt, and you’re all set. The spice rub is very easy to make (I mean very). If you don’t have marjoram, here is a list of marjoram substitutes that you can use instead.

In this recipe, the phrase “knowledge is power” stands true. You just need to know which spices and herbs are used. You can obviously figure out the rest. So, without wasting any time, let’s see the KFC 11 secret spices and herbs.

Equipment Required

Large Bowl: I use it to mix all the herbs and spices for the recipe.
Whisk: A perfect way to mix and blend all the spices together.
Air-tight container: It is used to store herbs and spices for a longer period.

Bobby Flay Cranberry Sauce Ingredients & Substitutions

Note: The recipe serves 5 people. You can increase or decrease the quantity of ingredients based on the size of the gathering.

2 Tablespoons Paprika: Add smoked paprika if simple paprika is unavailable.
1 Tablespoon Onion Salt: Substitute it with one part onion powder and one part plain salt.
1 Teaspoon Celery Salt: Add a pinch of dried parsley with salt as an alternative to celery salt.
1 Teaspoon Rubbed Sage: Thyme is a perfect substitute for rubbed sage.
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Add granulated garlic that can also be used.
1 Teaspoon Ground All Spice: You can add nutmeg powder if allspice is unavailable.
1 Teaspoon Ground Oregano: If oregano is unavailable, use Italian seasoning as an alternative.
1 Teaspoon Chili Powder: Add chili flakes in the recipe if you do not have chili powder.
1 Teaspoon Black Pepper: White pepper is also a perfect substitute for black pepper.
1 Teaspoon Basil Leaves: Add thyme leaves as an alternative if you don’t have basil leaves.
1 Teaspoon Marjoram Leaves: Oregano can be added; it also adds a similar flavor.
1 Teaspoon Salt: Kosher salt also tastes similar.
1 Teaspoon MSG: Add mushroom powder or soy sauce if you don’t have MSG.

Preparation And Cooking Time

Preparation Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
5 Minutes	–	5 Minutes

How To Make KFC 11 Secret Herbs And Spices At Home

Step 1

In a large bowl, add paprika, onion salt, celery salt, rubbed sage, garlic powder, ground allspice, ground oregano, chili powder, black pepper, basil leaves, and marjoram leaves. Then whisk them, transfer the spice rub to an airtight container, and store it until you want to use it.

Expert Tips That I Recommend

I prefer sifting garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and paprika to prevent them from clumping.
Always use measuring spoons to add the right quantity.
To add deeper flavor, use whole pepper or herbs after lightly toasting them.
Do not use the recipe immediately; let it blend well so it tastes good.
Since celery salt, MSG, and regular salt are similar in taste, make sure you taste them to avoid oversalting.

FAQ About KFC 11 Secret Herb and Spices

Can I use this mix only for chicken?

This versatile mix can be sprinkled on fries, grilled tofu, burgers, popcorn, or sandwiches.

Why does my mix taste so salty?

The saltiness in the mix comes from multiple ingredients that contain salt. You can fix it by adding regular salt first and then adjusting the celery salt.

Can I use the seasoning as a dry rub?

Of course, you can use it as a dry rub too. Just take some seasoning and rub it directly on chicken, tofu, or potatoes with a little oil.

Why does the mix taste bitter?

The bitter taste arises from the addition of old paprika or from adding too much sage/oregano to the mix.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

KFC 11 Secret Herb and Spices is a versatile flavoring agent you can use in a variety of recipes. The recipe can be added to deep-fried chicken or processed food to enhance the flavor. Use it in an ideal quantity, and avoid excessive use.

Calories	64.1 kcal
Fat	2.2 g
Saturated Fat	0.4 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1.3 g
Monounsaturated Fat	1 g
Sodium	8 mg
Potassium	425.6 mg
Carbohydrates	13.4 g
Fiber	7 g
Sugar	2.2 g
Protein	3.2 g

The recipe can be adjusted to your dietary preferences. Swap some ingredients and enjoy it.

Recipe Variation For Different Diets

Low Sodium Version: Add celery salt and MSG in a generous quantity. Also, you can add more flavor boosters, such as onion or garlic powder, to the recipe.

Storing This Recipe

Refrigerate: Transfer the powder to an airtight container when well combined, then keep it in a cool, dark place. You can use this powder for a longer duration or whenever you want. Just make sure you do not add any wet spoon or keep the lead open, as moisture can spoil the texture.

What To Serve With This Recipe

The powder can be enjoyed on Fried Chicken or sprinkled on Mashed Potato Fries. The recipe can also be used on Quinoa Salad or Greek Cucumber and Tomato Salad.

Printable Version

More Recipes That You Can Try

KFC Copycat Chicken Tenders — KFC Chicken Tenders

Chicken Drumsticks KFC Recipe — KFC Chicken Tenders

Conclusion

These were the 11 secret spices and herbs from KFC. Use them to make the KFC-like fried chicken at home, and tell me your views in the comments. It’s time to take your leave. See you with another recipe next time.