Crispy Chicken Batter 🍗🔥

Light, Golden, and Fried to Absolute Perfection

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a game-day party, nothing beats a basket of golden, crispy fried chicken. This Crispy Chicken Batter recipe gives you that light yet crunchy coating that locks in flavor while staying beautifully crisp. It’s simple to whip up and delivers better-than-restaurant results every time.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This batter hits all the right notes:

• Cornstarch + flour = extra crunch
• Baking powder and soda water add airy lightness
• Perfect seasoning for bold, savory flavor
• Works beautifully on wings, tenders, thighs, or drumsticks

And when paired with party hits like beer cheese dip or walking taco bars, it’s a guaranteed win.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (makes it extra crispy!)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cold water or soda water (soda water = lighter, airier batter)
• Optional: 1 egg (adds richness and color)
• 10 chicken drumsticks or your cut of choice

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How to Make Crispy Chicken Batter

Step 1 – Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2 – Add the Wet Ingredients

Gradually pour in the cold water or soda water, whisking continuously until smooth. If using, add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3 – Coat the Chicken

Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Dip each piece into the batter, ensuring a full, even coating.

Step 4 – Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 12–15 minutes for drumsticks.
Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot—fry in batches for even crisping.

Step 5 – Drain & Serve

Place fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Tips for Maximum Crispiness

• Use cold soda water for the lightest batter
• Don’t let the coated chicken sit too long before frying—fry immediately after dipping
• Keep your oil temperature steady for even browning
• Want extra crunch? Double-dip: dip in batter, fry for 3 minutes, dip again, and fry until done

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Serving Suggestions

These crispy drumsticks are party-ready with:

• Beer Cheese Dip on the side
• Walking Taco Bar for a game-day spread
• Sheet Pan Quesadillas as a finger food feast
• Classic sides like slaw, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese

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Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat: Best in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness
• Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in a single layer, then store in bags for up to 1 month

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More Comfort Food You’ll Love

• Dorito Casserole
• Easy Turkey Wings
• Sheet Pan Quesadillas
• Walking Taco Bar
• Beer Cheese Dip

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Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chicken Batter is everything you want in a fried chicken recipe—simple, flavorful, and ultra crunchy. Use it for drumsticks, wings, tenders, or even vegetables like onion rings or cauliflower. Once you’ve tried this batter, you’ll never go back to bland coatings again.

Try it, tag @chefmaniac, and show off your golden-fried glory! 🍗✨