Ingredients
2 teaspoons table salt
1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
4 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon celery salt
2 tablespoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon dry mustard powder
2 teaspoons ground white pepper
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon MSG, optional
Instructions
1. Add the table salt, dried thyme, dried basil, paprika, dried oregano, celery salt, garlic salt, black pepper, mustard powder, white pepper, ground ginger, and optional MSG to a small mixing bowl.
2. Break apart any lumps in the paprika, garlic salt, or mustard powder with the back of a spoon.
3. Whisk the spices together for about 1 minute, or until the herbs and powders are evenly combined.
4. For a finer seasoning, transfer the mixture to a clean spice grinder and pulse it a few times. Do not process it for too long.
5. Pour the seasoning into a clean, completely dry spice jar or airtight container.
6. Label the container and store it in a cool, dry cupboard away from heat and direct sunlight.
7. Shake the jar well before each use because the finer spices may settle at the bottom.
Notes
Use approximately 1 tablespoon of seasoning for every pound of chicken. Rub the chicken with a small amount of oil first so the seasoning sticks evenly.
For fried chicken, mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of seasoning into 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
This blend contains table salt, celery salt, and garlic salt. Avoid adding additional salt to the chicken until you have tasted the finished seasoning.
Regular sweet paprika gives the blend its classic color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika can be used, but it will produce a smokier result.
MSG is optional. It adds a deeper savory flavor, but the seasoning will still work well without it. No replacement is necessary.
Ground black pepper may replace the white pepper, although the flavor will be slightly sharper.
Store the seasoning in an airtight container for up to 6 months. For the strongest flavor, keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight.
This homemade blend is inspired by restaurant-style fried chicken seasoning and is not the official proprietary KFC formula.