KFC's iconic fried chicken achieves its unique taste and texture through a combination of commercial pressure fryers, a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, and a meticulous breading process known as the "7-10-7" technique. These elements have been central to the chain's recipe since its founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, perfected it.
The use of commercial pressure fryers is cited as a key factor in making the chicken crispy on the outside while retaining its juiciness within. This method allows for quick cooking, contributing to the chain's signature result.
Colonel Sanders reportedly spent nine years developing his recipe. The exact blend of 11 herbs and spices is a closely guarded secret, with layers of its preparation divided among different facilities to maintain its confidentiality. Some accounts suggest that the original handwritten recipe is kept securely locked away.
One notable attempt to reveal the recipe occurred in 2016 when a reporter for the Chicago Tribune was shown what was claimed to be the original recipe by Sanders' nephew. KFC disputed this claim at the time, stating that previous assertions about the recipe had also been inaccurate.
More recently, KFC has disclosed details about its breading process. The "7-10-7" technique involves a specific sequence of steps: chicken pieces are rolled seven times in a basket after rinsing to remove excess moisture, then tossed in flour 10 times using a “scoop and lift” motion, and finally pressed into the flour seven times. This process aims to ensure an optimal flour-to-chicken coating ratio.
Following the breading, the chicken is placed in stainless steel baskets in a layout designed by Sanders to prevent overlapping pieces. This ensures even cooking, allowing different parts of the chicken, such as the breast and drumstick, to cook simultaneously and to golden perfection under pressure. The chain emphasizes that its chicken is prepared "the hard way," with each piece hand-breaded and freshly made.
The first KFC franchise opened in Utah in 1952. Colonel Sanders passed away in 1980, but his image and recipe remain central to the brand's identity. Today, KFC operates over 31,000 locations in 150 countries and territories worldwide.