Description
Crispy, golden, and loaded with flavor, this Southern Fried Chicken Batter recipe delivers the kind of crunch you dream about. It's perfect for a quick dinner, comfort food night, or your weekend indulgence. This easy recipe makes fried chicken that’s juicy inside, flaky on the outside, and irresistibly savory. Whether you're looking for breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, or just simple food ideas to satisfy your craving, this homemade classic won't disappoint.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breasts)
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon hot sauce
2 eggs (optional)
Instructions
1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl with buttermilk, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt. Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, thyme, and oregano.
3. Set up a dredging station with the flour mixture and, optionally, a bowl with beaten eggs or extra buttermilk.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, let the excess drip off, and coat it thoroughly in the flour mix. For an extra-crunchy coating, dip back into egg/buttermilk, then flour again.
5. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let rest for 15–20 minutes before frying.
6. Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes (or 8–10 minutes for boneless), turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Let the fried chicken drain on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For the crispiest crust, always rest the dredged chicken before frying.
Don't overcrowd the frying pan; it lowers the oil temperature and softens the coating.
Add a handful of crushed cornflakes or panko to the flour mix for extra texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy recipe, southern fried chicken, crispy chicken, dinner ideas, comfort food, quick dinner