Hey y’all! Today, I’m sharing the secret to crispy, juicy fried chicken—Beefy Best Southern Fried Chicken Batter!
This batter is what makes your fried chicken extra crunchy on the outside but tender on the inside. Let’s get frying!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, if you like heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk and egg. Add the chicken pieces, cover, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for even better flavor!).
Mix the batter: In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This is your crispy coating.
Coat the chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the dry flour mixture, pressing it on so the coating sticks really well.
Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet (about 1-2 inches deep) and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature (it should be 165°F/74°C).
Drain and serve: Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any extra oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides!