American Southern Fried Chicken with Gravy

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

• 1 cup pan drippings, from fried chicken
• 1 cup flour
• 2 cups milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Method

1. 01
   In a large bowl, combine buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. 02
   In another bowl, mix sifted flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. 03
   Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Place on a wire rack to rest for 10 minutes.
4. 04
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. 05
   Carefully add chicken pieces to the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 8-10 minutes per side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. 06
   Remove chicken and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 1/4 cup of pan drippings for gravy.
7. 07
   For the gravy, heat reserved drippings in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
8. 08
   Gradually whisk in warmed milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
9. 09
   Season gravy with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve the fried chicken hot with gravy on the side.