Now we’re talking crispy, golden, juicy Southern Fried Chicken — the kind that crackles when you bite into it. 🍗🔥 The secret? A well-seasoned batter and proper frying technique. Here’s a classic Southern-style batter recipe that gives you a flavorful crunch and tender chicken every time.

🍗 Southern Fried Chicken Batter

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min (plus marinating)

⏱️ Fry Time: 12–15 min per batch

🍽️ Enough for 8–10 pieces of chicken

🧂 Ingredients

🍗 For the chicken:

8–10 pieces of bone-in chicken (legs, thighs, breasts, wings)
2 cups buttermilk (for marinating — optional but recommended)
1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for marinade)

🧁 For the seasoned flour batter:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispness — optional but great)
2 tsp salt
1½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
1 tsp baking powder (helps puff/crisp)

🥛 For the wet dip (optional but helps the batter stick):

2 eggs
¼ cup buttermilk or milk
Splash of hot sauce

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate (optional but ideal)

Place chicken in a bowl or bag with buttermilk and hot sauce.
Marinate in the fridge 4 hours to overnight. This tenderizes and flavors the meat.

2. Prepare flour mixture

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings thoroughly.

3. Prepare wet dip (if using)

Whisk eggs with milk and a splash of hot sauce in a shallow bowl.

4. Coat the chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
Dip in egg wash, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour.
For extra crunch: Let rest 10 minutes, then dip and dredge a second time.
Shake off excess flour.

5. Heat oil

Fill a heavy pot or deep fryer with peanut oil, canola, or vegetable oil — about 2–3 inches deep.
Heat to 325–350°F (165–175°C).

6. Fry the chicken

Fry in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally.
Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C) for white meat, 175°F (80°C) for dark.

7. Drain & rest

Place on a wire rack (not paper towels — to keep it crispy).
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

🍯 Serving Ideas

Serve with:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Mashed potatoes & gravy
- Collard greens or mac & cheese
- Hot honey or dipping sauces

🔁 Tips & Variations

Want extra crispy chicken? Add 1 tbsp of vodka or seltzer water to your wet dip. It evaporates quickly and makes the crust lighter.
For spicy fried chicken, add more cayenne and hot sauce or toss finished chicken in spicy oil or butter.

Would you like a Nashville hot version, oven-fried alternative, or a gluten-free variation next?