KFC Keto Fried Chicken

Here’s my low-carb twist on a crispy, golden fried chicken that delivers all the crunch without the guilt. Juicy inside, crackling outside, and packed with flavor—this is the kind of comfort food you’d never guess is keto-friendly. Honestly, even fried chicken purists won’t miss the carbs.

Fried Chicken, But Keto-Style

I have a soft spot for fried chicken—always have. When I was younger, my go-to dinner pick was always a bucket of KFC. There was a store just around the corner from where I lived, and my dad was as hooked on it as I was. We didn’t get it often, but every bite felt like a little slice of heaven.

Years later, I started eating more mindfully, and fried chicken became a rare treat. But when I began following a keto lifestyle, I knew I couldn’t give it up completely. I just had to find a way to make it work—and that’s exactly what this recipe does.

Wait—Is Fried Chicken Even Keto?

If you’ve ever glanced at the nutrition facts of takeout fried chicken, you already know the answer: not even close. Most fast-food versions use flour-heavy coatings that are sky-high in carbs.

But here’s the good news—you can totally recreate that same crispy, seasoned magic at home with a keto-friendly twist. This version keeps all the crunch and flavor, but ditches the carb-loaded flour. The chicken is marinated in a creamy mixture for tenderness, then coated in almond flour, parmesan, and low-carb bread crumbs. It’s everything you love about fried chicken—just without the carb crash.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own batch of crispy keto fried chicken:

• Chicken (skin-on): A mix of drumsticks, thighs, and breasts works great. If you’re going with just one cut, I’d vote drumsticks—they’re hard to mess up and always juicy.
• Salt & pepper: Keep it simple to start the flavor layering.
• Eggs: Whisked together with cream to help the coating stick, mimicking a traditional buttermilk dip.
• Heavy cream: Acts as a low-carb buttermilk substitute. Zero carbs and rich flavor.
• Almond flour: Blanched is best for texture, but almond meal will do the job if that’s what you have.
• Keto bread crumbs: You can buy them or make your own from low-carb crackers or pork rinds. Just crush them finely.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth to the crust.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: Must-haves for boosting flavor in the coating.
• Neutral oil for frying: Use something with a high smoke point—like avocado, peanut, or safflower oil.

How to Make Keto Fried Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prep the Coating

In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. In another, mix the almond flour, crushed keto bread crumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge in the dry coating, pressing lightly so it sticks.

Step 3: Fry

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (180°C). Carefully lower in the coated chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

FAQ & Tips for the Best Keto Fried Chicken

Can I bake it instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment and place your coated chicken pieces on it. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).

How about using an air fryer?

Definitely! Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Again, make sure it’s fully cooked to 165°F (75°C).

What’s the best oil for frying?

Go for neutral oils with high smoke points. Avocado oil, peanut oil, or safflower oil are all great options.

Which chicken cuts work best?

Drumsticks, thighs, and breasts are ideal. Avoid wings or tiny cuts unless you’re cooking them all together, as smaller pieces cook too quickly and can dry out.

Is it healthy?

Let’s be real—anything fried isn’t exactly a salad. But this keto version is lighter than traditional fried chicken. You can make it even healthier by air frying or baking and using chicken breast instead of thighs or drumsticks. For a dairy-free marinade, swap the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Storing

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Once the chicken has cooled completely, place the pieces in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

Avoid the microwave unless you like soggy fried chicken. Instead, reheat in a preheated oven, on the stovetop, or in the air fryer to bring back that crispy crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this keto fried chicken with a crisp side salad, roasted veggies, or cauliflower mash for a satisfying low-carb meal. If you’re entertaining, it also pairs well with keto coleslaw or pickles for that classic fried chicken vibe.

Final Thoughts

This keto fried chicken hits the spot every time. It’s indulgent without being carb-heavy, and it’s proof that eating keto doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love. Whether you fry it, bake it, or toss it in the air fryer, you’re going to end up with golden, juicy chicken that’s hard to resist.

Try other recipes:

• Low Carb General Tso’s Chicken
• Low Carb Curry Chicken Salad
• Low Carb Crustless Chicken Pot Pie