Fried chicken lovers rejoice! Meghan Markle’s famous brined fried chicken recipe has made headlines for bringing the juicy, crispy taste of KFC straight into your kitchen. Known for her healthy yet indulgent approach to cooking, Meghan’s recipe balances flavor, tenderness, and a perfect golden crust.
Why Brined Fried Chicken is a Game-Changer
Brining is the secret behind this brined fried chicken recipe. By soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution, the meat retains moisture while absorbing subtle seasoning. The result is chicken that’s tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, making it far superior to standard fried chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 chicken thighs and drumsticks (skin-on)
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Guide to Meghan Markle’s Brined Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
In a large bowl, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until dissolved. Submerge the chicken in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 4–6 hours. This brining step ensures your chicken remains moist and flavorful.
Step 2: Buttermilk Soak
After brining, remove the chicken and pat dry. Pour buttermilk over the chicken and let it soak for at least 1 hour. This creates a tender, flavorful coating that enhances the brined fried chicken texture.
Step 3: Season and Coat
In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is fully coated. The flour mixture locks in the moisture from the brine while giving it that classic crispy exterior.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken in the oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12–15 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The result is golden-brown brined fried chicken with an irresistible crunch.
Tips for the Best Brined Fried Chicken
- Always use skin-on chicken for maximum crispiness.
- Do not skip the brining step—it’s essential for juicy meat.
- Maintain oil temperature to prevent soggy crusts.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Meghan Markle’s brined fried chicken recipe isn’t just another fried chicken recipe. It’s a fusion of royal-approved home cooking and the iconic KFC flavor everyone loves. Whether serving it for family dinners or special gatherings, this recipe guarantees tender, flavorful, and crispy chicken that will impress any crowd.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the famous KFC flavor at home, Meghan Markle’s brined fried chicken recipe is your go-to solution. Easy to follow, full of flavor, and crispy perfection in every bite, it’s a recipe that deserves a place in your home cooking repertoire.
