Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Here’s a classic Southern Fried Chicken batter recipe that gives you that crispy, flavorful crust:

Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness)

• 1 to 1½ cups buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)

• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the wet mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until combined.

2. Prepare the dry mix: In another bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and baking powder.

3. Batter your chicken:

   • Dip each chicken piece first into the wet mixture, coating well.

   • Then dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to get a thick coating.

   • For extra crunch, dip the floured chicken back into the wet mixture and again into the flour mixture (double dredge).

4. Fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches, about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).