Southern Fried Chicken Batter
An Engaging Introduction
If you’ve ever craved the mouthwatering allure of Southern fried chicken, you’re in for a treat! This recipe for Southern Fried Chicken Batter is the ultimate answer to your fried chicken dreams. Think of it as a homemade version of your favorite fast-food chicken but with the added comfort of knowing exactly what goes into it. Once you try this recipe, you’ll be convinced that it’s the best fried chicken batter out there!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields crispy, flavorful chicken every time. The blend of spices in the batter gives the chicken a delectable flavor reminiscent of classic Southern cooking. Plus, you have the freedom to use your preferred type of chicken, whether it’s boneless or bone-in, ensuring every bite is just the way you like it.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Plastic bag for coating
- Skillet for frying
- Meat thermometer
- Paper towels for draining
Ingredients
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 4 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Beat the eggs and milk together in a bowl.
- In a large plastic bag, combine the flour, garlic salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, and paprika.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bag, seal it, and shake well to coat the chicken evenly with the flour mixture.
- Remove the chicken from the bag and dip each piece into the egg mixture, then return it to the flour mixture for a second coat.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 365 degrees F.
- Brown the chicken on all sides in the hot oil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the chicken for another 30 minutes or until it is thoroughly cooked, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
- Drain the fried chicken on paper towels and serve hot.
Tips for Success
Maintain a steady oil temperature around 365 degrees F for optimal frying. Use a thermometer that attaches to the side of your pan for easy monitoring. To ensure juicy chicken, consider cooking with a lid on the skillet. This helps retain moisture and results in tender meat.
Additional Tips and Variations
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in pickle brine or buttermilk for up to 12 hours before cooking. This adds a delightful tang and keeps the chicken moist. Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the batter to your taste.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While the exact nutritional content will vary based on the size and type of chicken used, this recipe provides a good balance of protein and savory flavors, making it a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of oil is best for frying? I recommend using vegetable oil, such as Crisco, for frying.
How many pieces of chicken does this recipe make? It varies depending on the size and type of chicken pieces. Typically, you can expect 6-8 pieces if using boneless skinless chicken breasts.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through? Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate Southern Fried Chicken Batter recipe, ready for you to try in your own kitchen. We hope it becomes a favorite in your household as it has in ours. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out by sharing your experiences in the comments below!
