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Long John Silver’s Batter Recipe

Long John Silver’s Famous Batter Copycat

This crispy golden batter is the secret behind Long John Silver’s famous fried fish and chicken. Light, airy, and crunchy, this copycat recipe lets you recreate that irresistible fast-food favorite right at home. Perfect for coating fish fillets, chicken tenders, or even onion rings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup cold club soda or sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • For Frying:
  • 1 lb white fish fillets cod, pollock, or haddock OR chicken tenders

Method
 

  1. In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, sugar, baking soda, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  3. Slowly whisk in the cold club soda until smooth. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
  4. Pat fish or chicken dry with paper towels. Lightly dust with flour (optional—helps batter stick).
  5. Dip each piece into the batter, letting excess drip off.
  6. Fry in hot oil for 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Serve hot with tartar sauce or malt vinegar.

Notes

  • Club soda is key it creates the light, bubbly crispiness.
  • Keep the batter cold for best results.
  • Works great for veggies like zucchini, onion rings, or mushrooms.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan, or the batter won’t crisp properly.