Crispy Chicken Batter

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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps the batter stick better.
2. Season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

### **Step 2: Make the Dry Batter Mix**
1. In a large bowl, mix **flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all seasonings**. The cornstarch helps create **a super crisp coating**.

### **Step 3: Whisk the Wet Batter**
1. In another bowl, whisk together **water (or sparkling water), egg, and buttermilk**.
2. Slowly add **½ cup of the dry batter mix** into the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth. This will create a **thicker, slightly sticky batter**.

### **Step 4: Coat the Chicken**
1. Dip each piece of chicken into the **wet batter**, making sure it’s fully coated.
2. Transfer immediately into the **dry batter**, pressing gently to ensure a thick, craggy texture forms.
3. Shake off excess flour and let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before frying.

### **Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection**
1. Heat vegetable oil in a **deep fryer or large pot** to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for **8-12 minutes**, depending on the size. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
3. Remove and place on a wire rack (not paper towels) to keep the coating crisp.

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## **Tips for the Crispiest Chicken**

🔥 **Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch** – Cornstarch in the dry mix helps create **a light, crispy crust**.

💧 **Cold Sparkling Water = Airy Batter** – The carbonation **adds fluffiness**, making the coating lighter and crunchier.

🍗 **Rest the Coated Chicken Before Frying** – This helps the batter **stick better** and prevents it from falling off in the oil.

🌡 **Monitor Oil Temperature** – Keep it at **350°F (175°C)** for perfectly fried, non-greasy chicken.

🥶 **Double-Fry for Extra Crispness** – Fry once, let it rest for 5 minutes, then fry again for **an even crunchier bite**.

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## **Final Thoughts**

This **Crispy Chicken Batter** recipe delivers **perfectly golden, crunchy, and flavorful fried chicken** every time. Whether you’re making **chicken tenders for a snack, wings for game night, or drumsticks for a family dinner**, this batter will **elevate your fried chicken game** to a whole new level!

Give it a try and get ready to enjoy **crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious chicken!** 🍗🔥