Best Long John Silver’s Batter

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re a fan of crispy, golden fried fish or chicken, there’s a good chance you’ve craved the iconic taste of Long John Silver’s batter. That crunchy exterior with a light, almost airy interior is the hallmark of their deep-fried goodness. It wraps around each piece like a savory shell, turning simple ingredients into something unforgettable.

Recreating this batter at home is easier than you might think. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a coating that delivers the same crackly texture and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re dunking fresh cod or tender chicken strips, this recipe makes your kitchen feel like a seafood shack in the best way.

Why You’ll Love This Batter

The charm of Long John Silver’s batter lies in its lightness and crispiness. It doesn’t overwhelm the protein, instead it enhances it. You get the perfect crunch without a greasy aftertaste, and the texture holds up beautifully even after a few minutes out of the fryer. It’s also quick to make and uses common ingredients, which means you can satisfy those fast-food-style cravings without leaving your house.

What Kind of Oil Should I Fry In?

To get the best results, opt for oils with high smoke points like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. These oils can handle the heat required for deep frying and will keep your batter light and crisp rather than heavy or soggy. Make sure the oil is at a steady 375°F for that perfect golden finish.

Ingredients for the Best Long John Silver’s Batter

Making the perfect batter starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Each one helps build that signature crunch or contributes to the subtle flavor.

• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• Paprika
• Club soda (or water)

All-purpose flour is the bulk of the dry mix and provides structure to the batter.

Cornstarch is the secret to a light, crispy finish—it gives the batter that delicate, crackly texture.

Baking powder creates those tiny bubbles when fried, making the crust puff up just a bit.

Salt and sugar round out the flavor profile with the right balance of savory and slightly sweet.

Paprika adds a hint of warmth and color.

Club soda introduces carbonation for extra lift. Water works in a pinch, but club soda is best for crispiness.

How To Make the Best Long John Silver’s Batter

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, sugar, and paprika until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Liquid

Slowly pour in the club soda while stirring. Mix until the batter reaches a consistency slightly thinner than pancake batter. It should coat the back of a spoon but not be too thick.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat your oil to 375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy—the right temperature ensures a crispy finish without soaking up oil.

Step 4: Dip and Fry

Dip your fish, chicken, or veggies into the batter, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, turning once. This usually takes 3-5 minutes depending on the size of the item.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Remove the fried pieces with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

How to Serve and Store This Batter

This recipe makes enough batter to coat about 1 to 1.5 pounds of protein, perfect for feeding 4 people. Serve your battered fish or chicken hot out of the fryer for the best crunch. Pair it with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or even malt vinegar for that authentic fast-food feel.

If you have leftover batter, store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick whisk before using again. Fried leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness, though they’re best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve With Long John Silver’s Batter?

Hush Puppies

A Southern staple, hush puppies are the perfect partner for fried fish. Their soft interior and crispy shell echo the textures in the main dish.

Coleslaw

The creamy tang of coleslaw cuts through the richness of fried foods and adds a refreshing crunch.

Fries

Thick-cut or shoestring, fries soak up all the leftover flavor from your plate and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Corn on the Cob

Simple, sweet, and lightly salted, corn makes a great side that doesn’t fight the bold flavors of the batter.

Tartar Sauce

No fried fish is complete without a dollop of tartar sauce. Homemade or store-bought, it brings the zing.

Lemon Wedges

A spritz of lemon brightens the flavors and keeps your meal from feeling too heavy.

Green Beans

Sauteed or steamed, green beans add a touch of healthy contrast and color to your plate.

Pickles

The briny snap of pickles offers a fun flavor contrast and helps balance the richness.

Want More Savory Copycat Ideas?

If you love this Long John Silver’s batter, check out more crave-worthy dishes from our kitchen:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make it anytime you’re craving that fast-food crunch at home.

And if you gave it your own twist—added seasoning or switched up the protein—I’d love to hear about it. Share your take in the comments.

Explore more crispy comfort food recipes and health-boosting drinks at Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?