If you've ever craved the light, crispy, golden-brown batter from Long John Silver’s, you're in luck! This iconic, crunchy coating is what makes their fish and chicken so irresistible. Whether you're frying up fish fillets for tacos or making classic deep-fried chicken, this easy copycat recipe will give you that same airy, crispy texture at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Light: The combination of cornstarch and baking soda creates a delicate, crunchy coating.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry!
- Perfect for Fish & Chicken: This batter works wonderfully for both, making it versatile.
- Authentic Taste: It replicates that signature Long John Silver’s crunch you know and love.
Ingredients
To make this Long John Silver’s-style batter, you'll need:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – The base of the batter, giving structure.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Adds crispiness to the coating.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Helps create a light, airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- ¾ cup cold water – Keeps the batter thin and smooth for even coating.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually pour in the cold water, whisking continuously to form a smooth, lump-free batter.
2. Coat the Fish or Chicken
- Pat your fish fillets or chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This ensures the batter sticks well.
- Dip each piece into the batter, making sure it's evenly coated.
3. Heat the Oil for Frying
- In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is key to getting that signature crunch without absorbing too much oil.
4. Fry Until Golden Brown
- Carefully place the battered fish or chicken into the hot oil.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess grease.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture! Pair with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a side of coleslaw for the full Long John Silver’s experience.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Batter
✔ Use Ice-Cold Water: Cold liquid creates a light, airy batter that crisps up beautifully.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter: A few lumps are fine! Overmixing can make the batter too thick.
✔ Keep the Oil Hot: Frying at 350°F (175°C) ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
✔ Drain on a Wire Rack: Paper towels absorb oil, but a wire rack keeps the batter crispier longer.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Fish & Chips: Serve with crispy fries and malt vinegar.
- Fish Tacos: Add shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, vibrant meal.
- Crispy Fried Chicken: Use the batter for juicy, crunchy chicken tenders or drumsticks.
Final Thoughts
This Long John Silver’s copycat batter is light, crispy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can create perfectly golden fried fish or chicken at home. Whether you're making fish tacos, fried chicken, or classic fish and chips, this recipe will give you that restaurant-quality crunch every time. Try it out today and bring the Great Lakes Kitchen to life with your own homemade deep-fried goodness!