Southern Fried Chicken Batter

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Golden, ultra-crispy, and bursting with bold Southern flavor, this Southern Fried Chicken Batter recipe brings all the crunch and comfort you’d expect from a classic down-home favorite. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weekend family dinner or a backyard gathering, this chicken promises to be the star of the table with its tender, juicy meat and perfectly seasoned crust.

What makes this version special is its double-dip batter method and a clever blend of spices that infuse the chicken with flavor from the inside out. It’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and makes you sneak a bite (or two) straight out of the fryer.

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Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Chicken Batter

This isn’t just any fried chicken—it’s the ultimate crunchy and juicy Southern comfort food experience. The crust stays crisp long after frying, the inside remains moist and flavorful, and the seasoning hits all the right notes. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and seriously addictive.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner trying your hand at Southern classics, this batter is forgiving and foolproof.

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What Kind of Oil Should I Use for Frying?

For best results, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point. Peanut oil is traditional and adds a subtle nutty flavor, but vegetable or canola oil works just as well. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken (about 350°F) to avoid greasy, soggy results.

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Ingredients for the Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building the ultimate crispy coating and flavor-packed chicken.

• Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breast strips) – Choose skin-on, bone-in for the juiciest results.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy depth of flavor. It also helps the flour coating stick.
• All-purpose flour – The base for the crispy crust.
• Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch and lightness to the batter.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential base seasonings.
• Garlic powder and onion powder – Infuse the batter with aromatic flavor.
• Paprika – Adds color and a subtle smoky note.
• Cayenne pepper – Brings just the right hint of heat (optional but recommended).
• Eggs – Help bind the flour to the chicken for an even coating.

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How To Make the Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour buttermilk over them until fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoned Flour

In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne.

Step 3: Set Up the Dipping Station

Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat until smooth. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the eggs, and once again into the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to help it adhere.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches, without crowding, for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature hits 165°F. Let drain on a wire rack over paper towels.

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How to Serve and Store This Southern Fried Chicken Batter

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes. Serve the chicken hot and crispy straight out of the fryer, ideally with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F to crisp it up again.

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What to Serve With Southern Fried Chicken Batter?

Creamy Mac and Cheese

Classic comfort food to balance out the crispy crunch.

Buttery Biscuits

Perfect for soaking up any juicy drippings.

Garlic Roasted Green Beans

Adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty chicken.

Southern Potato Salad

Creamy and tangy, it’s a picnic-perfect companion.

Spicy Honey Cornbread

A little sweet and spicy goes a long way beside savory fried chicken.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bake Instead of Frying?

While frying gives you that signature crunch, you can bake the chicken. Use a wire rack over a baking sheet, brush the pieces with oil, and bake at 425°F for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breasts work great. Just adjust cooking time, as they’ll cook faster than bone-in cuts.

How Do I Keep the Batter From Falling Off?

Make sure your chicken isn’t too wet when dredging and press the flour firmly into the surface. Letting the coated chicken sit for 10-15 minutes before frying helps the crust adhere better.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Southern Fried Chicken Batter, don’t miss these irresistible recipes:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan
• Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
• Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
• Doritos Chicken Casserole

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Save This Pin For Later

Craving crispy Southern comfort? Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s always on hand for family dinners or weekend treats.

And if you try it out, tag me on Pinterest at Nora Nosh Recipes and let me know your twist! Did you go for extra cayenne or try it with boneless bites? Let’s make this a crispy classic worth sharing.

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