Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Prepare Dry Mix
In a bowl, combine flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk flour, water (or milk), egg, baking powder, and salt.
Batter should be thick but still pourable (like pancake batter).
Coat the Chicken
Dip chicken pieces into the dry flour mix.
Then dip into the batter, letting excess drip off.
Fry
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add chicken (don’t overcrowd).
Fry 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain & Rest
Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken
Use cold batter (even ice-cold water).
Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Let battered chicken sit 2–3 minutes before frying for better adhesion.
