Chicken Fried In Batter
Crispy, golden fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful batter, perfect for a comforting meal. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings craving Southern-style fried chicken.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the chicken, then cook until partially tender by simmering in boiling water for 30 minutes or longer depending on size.
- Drain and cool the chicken.
- Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning or celery salt as desired.
- Beat eggs in a bowl, then add milk to the eggs.
- Sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually beat the sifted dry ingredients into the milk and egg mixture, then blend in melted shortening.
- If the batter becomes thick upon standing, thin it with 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk.
- Dip pieces of chicken into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Preheat shortening to 375°F in a deep fryer or skillet.
- Fry the battered chicken pieces until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes, carefully slipping them into hot shortening.
- Drain fried chicken on absorbent paper.
- Serve piping hot and save the broth for soup if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter batter, consider using club soda instead of milk. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the batter. Allow the chicken to cool completely before dipping it in the batter to prevent it from becoming soggy. For extra flavor, use buttermilk instead of regular milk, which will also enhance the tenderness of the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken fried in batter with a side of creamy coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal. It also pairs beautifully with honey or a tangy dipping sauce. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside a fresh salad or with a side of corn on the cob. This dish complements American recipes and makes for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, which helps to retain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Fried In Batter contains roughly 136 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 858mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Boneless pieces may fry faster, so monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.
What can I do with leftover batter?
If you have leftover batter, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it may thicken, so add a little milk to thin it out before using it again. Alternatively, you can also use it to coat vegetables or fish for frying, creating a delicious variation.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that the baking powder is gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the crispy fried chicken without compromising on taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).