Southern Fried Chicken 
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
– In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are well coated.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Coating:
– In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
– Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
– Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat the Oil:
– In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken:
– Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
– Cook for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Serve:
– Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
– Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time) | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8
Indulge in this crispy and flavorful Southern Fried Chicken, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner!