Ultimate Guide to KFC Potato Wedges:
History, Recipes, and How to Make Them at Home
KFC potato wedges were one of the most loved fast-food sides in the United States. With their thick-cut shape, golden crispy coating, and fluffy potato interior, they stood out from ordinary fries. In 2020, KFC discontinued them, replacing them with Secret Recipe Fries — leaving many fans searching for copycat recipes to bring them back to life at home.
What Were KFC Potato Wedges?
KFC potato wedges were thick slices of russet potatoes, left with the skin on, coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mix, and deep-fried to perfection. The combination of crispy outside and soft inside made them irresistible.
Why Did KFC Get Rid of Potato Wedges?
In 2020, KFC decided to remove potato wedges from their menu for several reasons:
- Menu Update: Fries are more common in the fast-food industry and easier to market alongside burgers and chicken.
- Cooking Efficiency: Fries cook faster and are easier to standardize across locations.
- Consistency: Wedges varied in texture depending on preparation, while fries offered uniform results.
Although the change helped streamline operations, thousands of customers expressed disappointment, and petitions circulated online to bring wedges back.
KFC Wedges Recipe (Copycat Version)
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (skin on)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
Method:
- Cut each potato into 8–12 wedges.
- Soak wedges in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
- Mix flour and seasonings in a bowl.
- Dip wedges in milk, coat with flour mix, dip again in milk, and coat once more for extra crunch.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry wedges for 5–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Battered Potato Wedges Recipe
If you prefer a thicker, crispier coating, try this battered version.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup water
- Oil for frying
Method:
- Cut potatoes into wedges and parboil for 5 minutes.
- Mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Gradually add water to create a smooth batter.
- Dip wedges in batter and fry until golden and crispy.
KFC Fries Recipe (Secret Recipe Fries Copycat)
Since wedges are gone, KFC now serves seasoned fries.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- Oil for frying
Method:
- Cut potatoes into fries, soak in cold water, and dry.
- Mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
- Lightly coat fries in the mixture before frying at 350°F until golden.
- Drain and season while hot.
Tips for Making the Best KFC-Style Wedges
- Always use russet potatoes for a fluffy interior.
- Soak potatoes in cold water to remove starch and improve crispiness.
- Double coat for maximum crunch.
- Fry in batches so they cook evenly without absorbing excess oil.
- Season immediately after frying.
Conclusion
KFC potato wedges may be gone from the official menu, but you can recreate their crispy, seasoned magic at home. Whether you choose the classic double-coating method, a battered twist, or try KFC’s new fries recipe, you can enjoy that signature flavor anytime.
