Step 1

Pour the peanut oil (preferred) or vegetable oil into a deep fryer, 6-quart skillet, or Dutch oven until the oil is 1-inch deep.

Step 2

Heat the oil over medium heat or until it reaches 350 degrees F.

Step 3

While you’re waiting for the oil to heat up, Place 1 cup of the divided flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper in a medium-size mixing bowl or 1-gallon resealable food storage bag.

Step 4

Shake (or mix) the sealed bag to combine the ingredients for a homemade poultry seasoning, and set the flour mixture aside.

Step 5

Pour the second cup of flour into a second resealable bag (or medium-sized mixing bowl) and set it aside.

Step 6

In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg, and set that mixture aside too.

Step 7

Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Step 8

The chicken will go through a 3-step process from here.

Step 9

First, place the chicken in the bag (or bowl) of seasoned flour and shake or toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 10

Second, shake off the excess flour and dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture.

Step 11

Third, transfer the chicken to the last bag (or bowl) of flour and shake or toss until it’s very well coated.

Step 12

Place the coated chicken into the pre-heated oil, skin-side down, and be careful not to overcrowd the chicken in the oil. You can fry a second batch if need be to avoid overcrowding by frying all the chicken at once. Just make sure the hot oil remains at 350 degrees F.

Step 13

Cook the chicken pieces for 10 to 12 minutes, occasionally turning to prevent excessive browning.

Step 14

As the chicken batter turns golden brown, remove it from the hot oil, and allow it to drain in a closed container (to keep the fried chicken warm) with a paper towel under the chicken.

Step 15

Serve soul food Southern fried chicken right away, and enjoy!