Here’s a recipe for the best Southern Fried Chicken Batter. It makes the chicken crispy and flavorful with a perfectly seasoned crust!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the batter stick better.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
- Batter the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken piece into the wet mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing down to ensure the flour sticks to the chicken. Repeat this process for double-dipped, extra crispy chicken.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat about 1 to 2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy Southern Fried Chicken!
