Southern Fried Chicken Batter Recipe Crispy, Golden & Flavorful
If you’ve ever craved crispy Southern fried chicken that’s golden, juicy, and seasoned to perfection, this recipe is your go-to! With a simple homemade fried chicken batter made from flour, buttermilk, and classic Southern spices, you’ll get crunchy fried chicken that tastes just like grandma’s cooking. Perfect for family dinners, Sunday gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients for Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Batter
2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or wings – bone-in for best flavor)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy fried chicken)
1 tsp baking powder (for extra crunch)
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice as a substitute)
1 egg
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Batter
1. Preheat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep skillet, Dutch oven, or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Seasoned Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and baking powder.
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg until smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge it in the seasoned flour.
For extra crispy fried chicken, repeat the dip and flour coating step (double-dredge).
4. Fry Until Golden Brown
Place chicken pieces carefully into the hot oil.
Fry in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).
5. Drain & Serve
Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving hot with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
⏱ Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–5
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving (varies by cut and oil absorption)
Why This Southern Fried Chicken Batter Works
Creates crispy fried chicken with a golden crust.
Seasoned flour + buttermilk makes every bite flavorful.
Works for fried chicken wings, thighs, legs, or breasts.
A classic Southern comfort food recipe perfect for any occasion.
👉 Save this Southern Fried Chicken Batter Recipe to make crispy homemade fried chicken whenever the craving strikes. Serve it with classic sides for the ultimate Southern comfort food dinner!
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