Classic Southern Fried Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 4-5 lbs whole chicken
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 cups vegetable oil
• 4 cups coleslaw mix
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Begin by cutting the whole chicken into 8 pieces: 2 breasts, 2 wings, 2 thighs, and 2 drumsticks. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

3. 3

   In another bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

4. 4

   Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps to ensure even cooking.

5. 5

   In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat 4 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.

6. 6

   While the oil is heating, take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

7. 7

   Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 12-15 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. 8

   Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Season with additional salt if desired.

9. 9

   For the coleslaw, in a large bowl, combine 4 cups of coleslaw mix, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss until well mixed.

10. 10

    Serve the fried chicken hot alongside the coleslaw. Enjoy your classic Southern meal!