Southern Fried Chicken Batter

📝 Description:

This classic Southern Fried Chicken Batter gives your chicken that irresistible crispy, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, this batter is ideal for deep-frying or pan-frying chicken pieces to crunchy perfection.

📋 Ingredients for Southern Fried Chicken Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)

• Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, breasts – about 2 lbs)

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. For best flavor, marinate in buttermilk overnight (optional but recommended).

2. Make the dry batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.

3. Make the wet dip: In another bowl, whisk eggs with the buttermilk until well combined.

4. Dredge: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mix, then into the egg mixture, then back into the flour. Press firmly to ensure the flour sticks.

5. Rest: Place coated chicken on a rack and let it rest 10–15 minutes to set the crust.

6. Fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 10–14 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Drain: Place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

8. Serve: Enjoy hot with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

🍴 Servings:

Serves 4–6 people

🧠 Notes:

• Cornstarch boosts crispiness.

• Buttermilk helps tenderize and flavor the chicken.

• Resting before frying prevents the coating from falling off.

• Double-dipping = extra crunch.

💡 Tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan; it lowers oil temperature.

• Use a thermometer for oil and chicken temperature accuracy.

• Season the flour and buttermilk for deeper flavor.

• Leftovers? Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

🥗 Nutritional Info (per serving, estimate):

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 24g

• Carbs: 30g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 700mg

• Cholesterol: 130mg

✅ Benefits:

• Comfort food classic with bold Southern flavor

• Customizable spice level

• Great for gatherings, picnics, or Sunday dinner

• Crispy texture without needing commercial fryers

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I air-fry this?
A: Yes, though it may not be as crispy. Spray generously with oil and air-fry at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Absolutely. Just reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.

Q: Can I store the batter?
A: The dry mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to a month. Mix wet ingredients fresh before use.

Q: Why is my chicken not crispy?
A: Oil may not be hot enough, or you may have overcrowded the pan.