KFC’s New Value Meals: August’s Finger Lickin’ Good Recipes You Can Make at Home!

August brings exciting new value meals from KFC, offering delicious and affordable options. But what if you could recreate those iconic flavors in your own kitchen? This article provides detailed, step-by-step recipes inspired by KFC’s August value meals, allowing you to enjoy your favorite fried chicken and sides without breaking the bank. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and experience the joy of homemade KFC!

**Why Recreate KFC at Home?**

Before diving into the recipes, let’s explore the benefits of making your own KFC-inspired meals:

* **Cost-Effective:** Cooking at home is generally cheaper than eating out, even with value meals. You can control portion sizes and reduce waste.
* **Healthier Options:** Homemade versions allow you to use healthier ingredients, such as lean chicken, healthier oils, and lower-sodium seasonings. You can also control the amount of salt and fat.
* **Customization:** You can tailor the recipes to your specific tastes. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder. Prefer boneless chicken? Go for it!
* **Fun and Rewarding:** Cooking can be a relaxing and fulfilling activity. Plus, you get the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch.

**Inspired by August’s KFC Value Meals: Recreating the Classics**

This section will explore recipes inspired by some theoretical August KFC value meals. Since specific promotions change, we’ll focus on recreating the essence of KFC’s most popular items that might appear in such deals.

**1. Copycat KFC Fried Chicken (Crispy and Juicy!)**

This recipe aims to replicate KFC’s signature crispy and flavorful fried chicken. It involves brining the chicken, creating a flavorful breading, and frying it to perfection.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Brine:**
* 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or your preferred chicken parts, like thighs, drumsticks, and breasts)
* 8 cups cold water
* 1/4 cup salt
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, crushed
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* **For the Breading:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons paprika
* 2 tablespoons garlic powder
* 2 tablespoons onion powder
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
* 1 tablespoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon white pepper
* 1 tablespoon ground ginger
* 1 teaspoon celery salt
* 1 teaspoon mustard powder
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup milk
* **For Frying:**
* Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for deep frying)

**Instructions:**

1. **Brining the Chicken:** In a large bowl or pot, combine the cold water, salt, sugar, black peppercorns, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Add the chicken pieces to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Brining is crucial for juicy and flavorful chicken.
2. **Preparing the Breading:** In a large, shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, white pepper, ground ginger, celery salt, mustard powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your signature spice blend!
3. **Preparing the Egg Wash:** In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. This will help the breading adhere to the chicken.
4. **Breading the Chicken:** Remove the chicken pieces from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important to ensure the breading sticks properly. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dip the chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, dredge the chicken again in the flour mixture, pressing it on firmly to create a thick, crispy coating. This double-dredging method is key to achieving that KFC-like crust.
5. **Frying the Chicken:** Heat vegetable oil or peanut oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven to 325°F (160°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Resting the Chicken:** Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes will help the juices redistribute, resulting in even juicier chicken.
7. **Serving:** Serve the fried chicken hot and crispy. Enjoy it with your favorite sides!

**Tips for Perfect KFC-Inspired Fried Chicken:**

* **Use a Deep Fry Thermometer:** A deep fry thermometer is essential for maintaining the correct oil temperature. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** Overcrowding the pot will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches.
* **Use Fresh Oil:** Using fresh oil will ensure that the chicken tastes its best.
* **Experiment with the Spice Blend:** Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your liking. Add more of your favorite spices or try different combinations.

**2. Copycat KFC Coleslaw (Sweet and Tangy!)**

KFC’s coleslaw is a classic side dish that perfectly complements their fried chicken. This recipe aims to recreate its signature sweet and tangy flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 small head of cabbage, finely shredded (about 5 cups)
* 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
* 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
* **For the Dressing:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons white vinegar
* 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and finely chopped onion. Mix well.
2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, milk, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely.
3. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This chilling time is crucial for the coleslaw to develop its signature taste.
4. **Serving:** Serve the coleslaw cold. It’s the perfect side dish to complement your fried chicken or other KFC-inspired dishes.

**Tips for Perfect KFC-Inspired Coleslaw:**

* **Shred the Cabbage Finely:** Finely shredded cabbage is key to achieving the right texture. You can use a food processor or a mandoline slicer to make the process easier.
* **Don’t Overdress the Coleslaw:** Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want the coleslaw to be moist but not swimming in dressing.
* **Adjust the Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Some people prefer a sweeter coleslaw, while others prefer a tangier one.

**3. Copycat KFC Mashed Potatoes and Gravy (Creamy and Comforting!)**

KFC’s mashed potatoes and gravy are a comforting and satisfying side dish. This recipe aims to recreate their creamy texture and savory flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Mashed Potatoes:**
* 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup butter, softened
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
* **For the Gravy:**
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:** Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
2. **Mash the Potatoes:** Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for this step. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in gummy potatoes.
3. **Prepare the Gravy:** While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. The roux will thicken the gravy.
4. **Add the Broth:** Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
5. **Season the Gravy:** Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, and poultry seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. **Serving:** Serve the mashed potatoes hot, topped with the gravy. Enjoy!

**Tips for Perfect KFC-Inspired Mashed Potatoes and Gravy:**

* **Use Russet Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are the best choice for mashed potatoes because they are high in starch and result in a fluffy texture.
* **Don’t Overmix the Potatoes:** Overmixing the potatoes can result in a gummy texture. Mash them until they are just smooth.
* **Use Warm Milk and Butter:** Using warm milk and butter will help the potatoes stay warm and creamy.
* **Adjust the Consistency of the Gravy:** If the gravy is too thick, add more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
* **Add a Touch of Cream Cheese:** For extra creamy mashed potatoes, add a tablespoon or two of cream cheese along with the milk and butter.

**4. Copycat KFC Biscuits (Flaky and Buttery!)**

KFC biscuits are a beloved side dish known for their flaky layers and buttery flavor. This recipe aims to recreate that iconic texture and taste.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 4 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 3/4 cup cold buttermilk

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to keep the butter cold. The cold butter will create steam as it bakes, resulting in flaky layers.
4. **Add the Buttermilk:** Gradually add the cold buttermilk to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix. The dough will be slightly sticky.
5. **Turn Out and Knead:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat the dough into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. Fold the dough in half and pat it back into a 3/4-inch thick rectangle. Repeat this folding process 3-4 times. This creates layers in the dough.
6. **Cut Out the Biscuits:** Use a 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits. Do not twist the cutter, as this will seal the edges and prevent the biscuits from rising properly. If you don’t have a biscuit cutter, you can use a sharp knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles.
7. **Bake the Biscuits:** Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown. Turn the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
8. **Brush with Butter (Optional):** Once the biscuits are out of the oven, brush them with melted butter for added flavor and shine.
9. **Serving:** Serve the biscuits warm. They are delicious on their own or served with butter, jam, or honey.

**Tips for Perfect KFC-Inspired Biscuits:**

* **Use Cold Ingredients:** Cold butter and buttermilk are crucial for flaky biscuits. Make sure your ingredients are well-chilled before you start.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten and result in tough biscuits. Mix until just combined.
* **Fold the Dough:** Folding the dough creates layers and results in flaky biscuits.
* **Don’t Twist the Biscuit Cutter:** Twisting the biscuit cutter will seal the edges and prevent the biscuits from rising properly.
* **Bake at a High Temperature:** Baking the biscuits at a high temperature will help them rise quickly and create a golden-brown crust.

**Adapting the Recipes to Create Your Own Value Meal**

Now that you have the individual recipes, you can combine them to create your own KFC-inspired value meal! Here are some ideas:

* **The “Classic” Meal:** Fried Chicken + Coleslaw + Mashed Potatoes and Gravy + Biscuit
* **The “Spicy” Meal:** Spicy Fried Chicken (add cayenne pepper to the breading) + Coleslaw + Mac and Cheese (another popular KFC side!) + Biscuit
* **The “Family” Meal:** A larger batch of Fried Chicken + Coleslaw + Mashed Potatoes and Gravy + Green Beans (another classic side) + Several Biscuits

**Modifying for Dietary Needs and Preferences**

These recipes can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences:

* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free flour blends for the fried chicken breading and biscuit recipe. Make sure to use gluten-free baking powder.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes in the mashed potatoes and biscuits. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise for the coleslaw.
* **Vegetarian/Vegan:** Recreate KFC’s sides, focusing on dishes like coleslaw, mashed potatoes (use vegetable broth for the gravy), green beans, and corn on the cob. Consider vegan fried chicken alternatives using tofu or seitan.
* **Lower Sodium:** Reduce the amount of salt in the brine, breading, and mashed potatoes. Use low-sodium chicken broth for the gravy.

**Conclusion**

Recreating KFC’s iconic flavors at home is easier than you might think! By following these detailed recipes and tips, you can enjoy delicious and affordable KFC-inspired meals that are customized to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to unleash your inner Colonel Sanders! August’s value meals might be tempting, but with these recipes, you can enjoy the finger-lickin’ good taste any time you want, all while controlling ingredients and saving money. Happy cooking!