Southern Fried Chicken Batter

Ingredients:

2 cups All-purpose flour

1 tbsp Salt

4 tsp Garlic salt

2 tsp Paprika

2 tsp Black pepper

Instructions:
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic salt, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Chicken: Pat your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. (Optional: Some people dip the chicken in buttermilk or beaten eggs first to help the flour stick better).

Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure the coating sticks. Shake off any excess flour.

Rest: Let the coated chicken sit on a wire rack for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the batter set so it doesn’t fall off during frying.

Fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil.

Cook: Fry until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Drain: Remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels or a wire rack before serving.