Crispy Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

2. **Prepare the Coating**: In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

3. **Coat the Chicken**: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure a thick coating. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 15 minutes.

4. **Heat the Oil**: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. **Fry the Chicken**: Working in batches, carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes for larger pieces and 8-10 minutes for smaller pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. **Drain and Serve**: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious crispy fried chicken with a tasty dipping sauce!