KFC Style Chicken Hot Shot Recipe – Crispy, Juicy & Irresistible!

KFC Style Chicken Hot Shot Recipe 

Craving that iconic KFC Hot Shots crunch but don’t want to leave home? This homemade KFC-style chicken hot shot recipe delivers the same crispy, juicy, and flavorful bites you love—paired perfectly with aromatic Arabian rice just like the fast-food version! Whether you call them KFC Hot Shot Bites, KFC Hot Wings Copycat Recipe, or simply KFC Chicken Hot Shots, this recipe is a game-changer for snack lovers.

A Brief History of KFC Hot Shots

KFC’s Hot Shots became a sensation, especially in the Philippines, where their spicy, crispy chicken bites gained a cult following. These bite-sized pieces pack a punch with their perfect crunch and tender interior, making them an addictive snack or meal.

Why You’ll Love This KFC Hot Chicken Recipe

• Tastes just like KFC – Crispy outside, juicy inside.
• Easy to make at home – No fancy ingredients needed.
• Perfect for parties, snacks, or dinner – Kids and adults love them!
• Customizable spice level – Adjust heat to your preference.

My Personal Experience

After multiple trials, I nailed the KFC Hot Shots Recipe with a cold milk batter technique that ensures ultra-crispy results. The secret? Double coating and frying at the right temperature. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never order takeout again!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Deep frying pan or fryer
• Tongs
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

Preparation Time

• Marination: 3 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Taste & Texture

• 🔥 Crunchy exterior – Thanks to the corn flour and double coating.
• 🍗 Juicy, tender chicken – Marination keeps it moist.
• 🌶 Spicy, savory, slightly tangy – Adjust heat with chili sauce.

Ingredients for KFC-Style Hot Shots

For the Chicken Marinade

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tbsp Knorr Chili Garlic Sauce (or any hot sauce)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (for color & mild heat)
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• ½ tsp mustard paste

For the Cold Milk Batter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp cornflour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¾ to 1 cup cold milk (key for crispiness!)
• 2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt

For the Final Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder

For the Arabian Rice (Optional but Recommended!)

• 2 cups basmati rice (soaked)
• 5 cloves
• 5 green cardamom pods
• 3 tbsp oil
• ½ tsp garam masala
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 drop yellow food color (optional)

How to Make KFC-Style Hot Shots (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
• Add chicken cubes, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Batter & Coating

• Cold Milk Batter: Whisk flour, cornflour, baking powder, chili sauce, paprika, salt, and cold milk until smooth.
• Final Coating: Sift flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Double-Coating for Extra Crispiness

• Dip marinated chicken into the cold milk batter.
• Roll in the flour mixture for a thick, crispy layer.
• Repeat for extra crunch (optional).

Step 4: Frying to Golden Perfection

• Heat oil (medium heat).
• Fry chicken in batches until golden brown (6-8 mins).
• Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Arabian Rice (KFC-Style)

• Sauté cloves & cardamom in oil.
• Add soaked rice, salt, water, and a drop of yellow color.
• Cook until fluffy, then sprinkle garam masala.

Pro Tips for the Best KFC Hot Shots

• Use cold milk – Ensures a crispy crust.
• Double-coat – For extra crunch.
• Medium heat frying – Prevents burning.
• Rest the coated chicken – Helps coating adhere better.

Optional Add-Ons

• Drizzle Knorr Chili Garlic Sauce (like KFC) or use ketchup for kids.
• Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• KFC-Style Combo: Serve with Arabian rice & coleslaw.
• Party Snack: Pair with dips like ranch or garlic mayo.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container (up to 2 days).
• Reheat: Air fryer or oven (5 mins at 180°C) for crispiness.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne or red chili flakes.
• Honey Glazed: Toss in honey & soy sauce after frying.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 8 Pieces)

• Total Fat 12g 18%
• Saturated Fat 3g 15%
• Cholesterol 85mg 28%
• Sodium 750mg 33%
• Total Carbohydrates 28g 10%
• Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
• Sugars 1g -
• Protein 22g 44%
• Vitamin A 6% -
• Vitamin C 2% -
• Calcium 8% -
• Iron 10% -

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Healthier Modifications

• Bake Instead of Fry: Reduce calories by baking at 200°C for 20 mins.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Adds fiber.
• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce salt and use low-sodium soy sauce.

Final Verdict

This homemade KFC Hot Shot recipe gives you control over spice, crispiness, and freshness—no soggy takeout here. The cold milk batter trick makes all the difference, and the Arabian rice completes the meal just like the fast-food version.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken with bone?

Yes, but adjust cooking time (bone-in takes longer).

2. Can I air-fry instead of deep-frying?

Yes! Spray with oil and air-fry at 200°C for 12-15 mins.

3. What’s the best substitute for Knorr Chili Garlic Sauce?

Sriracha or a mix of ketchup + chili flakes works.

4. How can I reduce the calories in this recipe?

Bake instead of deep-frying.

Use skinless chicken.

Skip the rice or use cauliflower rice.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and corn flour with arrowroot powder.

This KFC Hot Shots Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Try it today.  Loved this recipe? Share it with fellow KFC lovers! 🍗🔥