Jake Harper
KFC is known for its Original Recipe chicken, but the fast-food chain also offers Extra Crispy chicken. The Original Recipe chicken is cooked in a pressure fryer, while the Extra Crispy chicken is cooked in an open fryer. Some people prefer the original recipe because it is juicier and more flavorful. Others prefer the extra crispy option because it has more texture and flavor due to being breaded twice and having a different seasoning mixed into the flour.
| Characteristics | Values | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of times breaded | Original: 1 | Extra Crispy: 2 |
| Type of fryer used | Original: Open fryer | Extra Crispy: Pressure fryer |
| Batter | Original: Seasoned flour | Extra Crispy: Wet batter |
| Texture | Original: Less crunchy | Extra Crispy: More crunchy |
| Flavor | Original: Juicier and more flavorful | Extra Crispy: Drier and less flavorful |
| Preference | Varies among individuals |
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What You'll Learn
Original recipe vs extra crispy: texture and flavour
Original Recipe and Extra Crispy are two variants of KFC's fried chicken. The Original Recipe is what KFC is famous for and is still what most people get. It is breaded once and cooked in a pressure fryer. The coating consists of seasoned flour, resulting in a juicy and flavourful piece of chicken.
The Extra Crispy variant is breaded twice in a separate station and cooked in an open fryer. It has a different seasoning mixed into the flour, resulting in a drier piece of chicken with a different flavour profile. Some people believe that the Extra Crispy variant has more texture and flavour, while others argue that it is drier and less flavourful than the Original Recipe.
One person commented that a few years ago, the Extra Crispy chicken had a garlicky flavour to it that they loved, but it no longer tastes the same. Another person noted that the Original Recipe was the only version available for over a quarter of a century, and now new menu items do not come in the original version. They feel that KFC should offer the option to get any menu item with the original recipe, just like the bone-in chicken.
It is worth noting that some KFC locations, such as in Meridian, Idaho, do not offer the Original Recipe, which has disappointed some customers.
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Original recipe: juicier and more popular
While KFC fans have differing opinions on whether the original recipe or extra crispy chicken is better, the original recipe is generally considered juicier and more popular.
Some customers have expressed their preference for the original recipe, citing its juiciness and flavour. They believe that the extra crispy chicken is drier and less flavourful in comparison. The original recipe is also what KFC is famous for, and it was the only version available for over 25 years. However, some customers have reported that KFC no longer offers the original recipe in certain locations, replacing it with crispy chicken.
The original recipe and extra crispy chicken are prepared differently. The original recipe is breaded once and cooked in a pressure fryer, resulting in a juicier texture. In contrast, the extra crispy chicken is breaded twice and cooked in an open fryer, giving it a crunchier texture.
Fans of the extra crispy chicken praise its texture and flavour. They appreciate the extra crispiness provided by the double breading and find that it offers more food for the same price. Some customers also recall that the extra crispy chicken had a garlicky flavour a few years ago, which they enjoyed.
Despite the debate, the original recipe seems to remain a classic favourite among KFC customers. Its combination of juiciness and flavour has kept it in high demand, even as KFC expands its menu with new items.
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Extra crispy: more food
KFC's extra crispy chicken has been a topic of discussion for many. While some prefer the original recipe, others argue that the extra crispy option has its own unique appeal.
One notable aspect of the extra crispy chicken is the increased texture and flavour it offers. This variety is breaded twice, using a different seasoning mixed into the flour, resulting in a crunchier and more flavourful experience. For those who enjoy a crispier texture, the extra crispy option is a clear winner.
Additionally, the extra crispy chicken provides a bit more food in terms of quantity. This is particularly appealing to those who feel that the standard portion sizes at KFC do not contain enough chicken. By opting for the extra crispy option, customers can satisfy their cravings with a more substantial meal.
While personal preferences vary, some customers have expressed disappointment with KFC's handling of the original recipe. In some locations, such as Meridian, Idaho, the original recipe chicken is not even offered, leaving customers with only the extra crispy option. This has led to mixed reactions, with some loyal fans of the original recipe feeling let down by the change.
Despite the ongoing debate, it's clear that KFC's extra crispy chicken has a dedicated following. Those who prefer it rave about the irresistible crunch and the fact that it satisfies their craving for more food. Whether you're a fan of the original or extra crispy chicken, it's safe to say that KFC continues to be a popular choice for many.
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Original recipe: seasoned flour
While KFC's sales numbers for original and extra crispy chicken are not publicly available, some customers have expressed their preferences online. Some customers prefer the original recipe, citing its juiciness and flavour, while others opt for the extra crispy variant for its texture.
Seasoned flour is a blend of all-purpose flour mixed with various spices and seasonings. It adds a layer of flavour to fried foods, like chicken, and aids in browning and caramelization. You can buy seasoned flour at the grocery store or make your own by mixing in seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. The flour is then used to coat the chicken by dredging, or rolling and pressing the chicken into the flour to ensure a thorough coating. This step is often followed by dipping the chicken in eggs and then breadcrumbs before frying.
To make gluten-free seasoned flour, use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour. Seasoned flour can also be used in gravies and sauces, typically combined with some form of fat, like butter, to make a roux.
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Extra crispy: double-breaded
While KFC is famous for its Original Recipe chicken, some people prefer the extra crispy option. The extra crispy chicken is double-breaded and cooked in an open fryer, resulting in a drier and less juicy texture compared to the original recipe. However, some customers appreciate the extra crispy chicken's crunch and find that it offers more food for the same price.
The extra crispy chicken at KFC has a unique preparation method that sets it apart from the original recipe. It involves double breading, where the chicken is breaded twice in separate stations, resulting in a thicker and crispier coating. This extra layer of breading gives the chicken its signature crunch and texture, making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a more substantial bite.
The breading process for the extra crispy chicken also includes a different seasoning mixed into the flour. While the original recipe uses seasoned flour, the extra crispy seasoning is kept separate, creating a distinct flavour profile. Some customers prefer this combination as it enhances the overall taste experience.
One notable aspect of KFC's extra crispy chicken is its cooking method. Unlike the original recipe, which is cooked in a pressure fryer, the extra crispy chicken is prepared in an open fryer. This cooking technique contributes to the dryness of the meat, resulting in a crispier texture. The open fryer allows the chicken to cook more slowly and evenly, ensuring that the thicker breading becomes golden brown and crispy without burning.
While some customers prefer the extra crispy chicken for its texture and flavour, others may find it drier and less juicy compared to the original recipe. The original recipe chicken is known for its moist and juicy qualities, attributed to its single breading layer and pressure frying method. Ultimately, the preference for original or extra crispy chicken comes down to individual taste preferences and expectations from the iconic KFC meal.
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Frequently asked questions
It is unclear which variety of chicken KFC sells more of. Some customers prefer the original recipe, while others prefer the extra crispy option.
The original recipe chicken is breaded once and cooked in an open fryer, resulting in a juicier and more flavourful product. The extra crispy chicken is breaded twice, cooked in a pressure fryer, and has a different seasoning mixed into the flour, resulting in a drier and crunchier texture.
Some customers believe that the original recipe is juicier and more flavourful than the extra crispy option.
Some customers enjoy the extra crispy chicken because it provides more texture and flavour. Others like that it gives them a bit more food for their money.
