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Easy Southern Fried Chicken Batter Recipes

Easy Southern Fried Chicken Batter Recipes

This easy Southern-style fried chicken uses a tangy buttermilk soak and a crisp seasoned coating for crunchy, juicy pieces every time.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Chicken & Marinade

  • 3 lb bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks) cut into similar-size pieces
  • 2 cup cultured buttermilk
  • 2 tsp hot sauce optional, for a mild kick
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Seasoned Coating

  • 2.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 tsp paprika sweet or smoked
  • 1.25 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1.25 tsp baking powder

For Frying

  • 4 cup neutral oil for frying such as peanut or vegetable

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Whisk buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken and coat well.
  • Marinate at least 20 minutes at room temp, or refrigerate up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Set a wire rack over a sheet pan. Stir flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and baking powder in a shallow dish.
  • Heat oil in a heavy pot to 330°F over medium heat. Maintain between 325°F and 350°F.
  • Lift chicken from marinade, letting excess drip. Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to help it cling.
  • Rest dredged chicken on the rack for 10 minutes so the crust sets.
  • Fry chicken in batches 12–15 minutes, turning as needed, until deep golden and 165°F at the thickest part.
  • Drain on a clean rack. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Variation: Add 1 tsp lemon pepper to the coating for a bright citrus note. For extra craggy crust, dip coated chicken back into buttermilk, then dredge again before resting. Leftovers reheat best on a rack in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Southern Fried Chicken Batter Recipes flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.