Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Recipe Directions
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
In another shallow dish, beat the egg and buttermilk together until well combined.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the batter to the chicken.
Shake off any excess flour and place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking.
Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
For extra crispy chicken, double dip the chicken pieces by coating them in the flour mixture, dipping them back into the buttermilk mixture, and then dredging them in the flour again before frying.
If you prefer boneless chicken, you can use chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of bone-in pieces.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to ensure a crispy exterior and juicy interior. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of batter into it – if it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make Southern Fried Chicken, you’ll need:

Shallow dishes for the flour and egg mixtures
Wire rack
Deep fryer or large skillet
Tongs for flipping the chicken
Storage Instructions
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Food and Drink Pairings
Serve your Southern Fried Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, and gravy for a traditional Southern feast. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of sweet tea or lemonade for the ultimate comfort food experience.

FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for the batter? A: While all-purpose flour is traditional for Southern Fried Chicken, you can experiment with different types of flour such as cornmeal, rice flour, or a combination of flours for a unique texture and flavor.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven for a healthier alternative to frying. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using it to coat the chicken.

Conclusion
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Southern Fried Chicken batter that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re frying up a batch for a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, and be sure to subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration. Happy frying!