Mama's Fried Chicken

A classic fried chicken recipe from Curtis Aikens (Food Network). Prep time does not include 2 hours chilling time.

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 3 -4  lbs whole chickens, cut into pieces
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  teaspoon pepper
• 2  cups buttermilk
•  self-rising flour
•  vegetable oil

Directions

1. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Place chicken in shallow dish or ziploc plastic bag; add buttermilk.
3. Cover or seal, and chill at least 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, discarding buttermilk.
5. Dredge chicken in flour.
6. Pour oil to a depth of 1 1/2 inches in a deep skillet or Dutch oven; heat to 360°F.
7. Add chicken, a few pieces at a time; cover and cook 6 minutes.
8. Uncover chicken and cook 9 minutes.
9. Turn chicken; cover and cook 6 minutes.
10. Uncover and cook 5 to 9 minutes, turning the chicken the last 3 minutes for even browning, if necessary.
11. Drain on paper towels.
12. Test chicken with meat thermometer (170°F) or by piercing thickest portion with fork.
13. When juices run clear it is done.