Get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food! There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and savory flavor that only a perfectly fried dish can provide. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering deep fryer recipes that will become new favorites in your household. From classic Southern-style chicken to crispy homemade fries, spicy pickles to fluffy hush puppies, and even sweet treats like cinnamon sugar donuts – we’ve got it all! Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just looking for a fun twist on old favorites, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So grab some oil and get ready to dive into the world of crispy, golden goodness!
Classic Southern Fried Chicken
Get ready for a taste of the South with this classic recipe that yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Southern-style fried chicken!
Golden Beer-Battered Fish
Get ready to enjoy a crispy and flavorful fish dish with this simple recipe. The golden beer batter adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicate taste of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup cold beer, flat
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
2. Gradually add the beer, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fish fillet into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Homemade French Fries
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy homemade French fries! This recipe yields a perfect blend of crunch and flavor, without sacrificing the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– Vegetable oil for frying (about 1/2 inch deep in a pot)
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
4. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
5. Carefully add the potato strips to the hot oil in batches, being mindful of the temperature.
6. Cook the fries for about 3-5 minutes or until they reach a golden brown color.
7. Remove the fries from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. Sprinkle with salt and any additional seasonings you like.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the number of batches.
Enjoy your crispy homemade French fries!
Spicy Fried Pickles with Ranch
Get ready to level up your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the crunch of fried pickles with the creaminess of ranch dressing, all infused with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 large dill pickle, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each pickle slice into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry pickles in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Drain fried pickles on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with ranch dressing for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
Crunchy Onion Rings
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful onion rings that are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated onion rings in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crunchy onion rings!
Perfect Fried Shrimp Po’ Boy
Get ready to dive into a mouthwatering sandwich filled with crispy fried shrimp, crunchy lettuce, and creamy remoulade sauce, all on a soft French baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 French baguettes, sliced in half lengthwise
– Lettuce leaves
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried shrimp on baguette halves, topping with lettuce, remoulade sauce, and pickle slices (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Hush Puppies
These tender and airy hush puppies are a Southern classic, infused with the tanginess of buttermilk and perfect for serving alongside your favorite fried foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add buttermilk and stir until just combined – do not overmix.
4. Using two spoons, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry hush puppies for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Zesty Fried Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, cheesy, and oh-so-spicy Zesty Fried Jalapeño Poppers! Perfect for parties or as a quick bite.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
5. Dip the stuffed jalapeños in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Fry the poppers in hot oil (350°F or 175°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Fried Mozzarella Sticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive mozzarella sticks. Perfect for game day, movie night, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each mozzarella strip into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry mozzarella sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
These tender donuts are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and coated in a sweet sugar glaze, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sugar glaze (see below)
Sugar Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth batter forms.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove donuts from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, toss donuts in sugar glaze (mix powdered sugar and water until smooth).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Crunchy Fried Chicken Tenders
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy and juicy chicken tenders! This easy-to-make recipe yields a deliciously crunchy exterior and tender interior that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs (e.g., dried thyme, cayenne pepper)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated tenders for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total
Golden Fried Calamari with Marinara
Savor the tender, crispy fried calamari rings smothered in a rich and tangy marinara sauce, perfect for dipping. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squid rings (calamari)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each squid ring in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry calamari rings in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Drain calamari on paper towels and serve hot with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy twist on classic hot chicken!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (wings, breasts, thighs)
– 1/4 cup hot chicken seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt with 1 tbsp white vinegar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot chicken seasoning blend, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk (or yogurt mixture), allowing excess to drip off before returning to the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the spicy kick!
Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes
A Southern classic gets a crispy twist! This recipe brings the flavors of fried green tomatoes to life, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, coating both sides, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Fried Apple Pies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy and delicious homemade fried apple pies. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
3. Roll out one pie crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spoon apple mixture onto half of the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the crust over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry pies for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 6-8 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pies being fried at once.
Cheesy Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
Take your comfort food game to the next level with these crispy, cheesy bites that combine the classic macaroni and cheese with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and melted butter. Add the mixture to the macaroni mixture and mix until combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
5. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and use your hands to shape into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Dredge each ball in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Fry the bites for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your shrimp game with this addictive recipe that combines the crunch of coconut flakes and the heat of sweet chili sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet chili sauce, store-bought or homemade (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and unsweetened shredded coconut.
2. In a separate dish, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
3. Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Note: For homemade sweet chili sauce, combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Golden Fried Oreos with Powdered Sugar
Elevate your snacking game with this indulgent treat that combines crispy fried Oreos with a sweet and fluffy powdered sugar coating. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your cravings or impressing your friends at a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Oreo cookies
– Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 inches deep in a pot)
– Powdered sugar, sifted
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar and sprinkles for extra decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In batches of 5-6, dip each Oreo cookie into the hot oil and fry for 10-12 seconds or until golden brown.
3. Remove the Oreos from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. While the Oreos are still warm, sift powdered sugar over them, shaking off any excess.
5. Serve immediately, or let cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes total (depending on how many Oreos you fry at once)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in ultimate comfort food with these crispy deep fryer recipes! From classic Southern fried chicken to spicy Nashville hot chicken, and from crunchy onion rings to sweet cinnamon sugar donuts, this list has something for everyone. Try your hand at making golden beer-battered fish, crispy homemade French fries, or fluffy buttermilk hush puppies. Or, satisfy your sweet tooth with fried apple pies or cheesy mac and cheese bites. Whatever your craving, these 18 recipes are sure to hit the spot!