**Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes 
**
****Ingredients:**
*For the Fried Chicken:*
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
*For the Mashed Potatoes:*
– 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
—
### **Instructions:**
### **1. Marinate the Chicken:**
– Place chicken in a large bowl.
– Pour buttermilk over the chicken and add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
– Toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for **at least 2 hours** or overnight for maximum tenderness.
—
### **2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:**
– Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for **15-20 minutes** or until fork-tender.
– Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
– Add butter and cream to the potatoes.
– Mash until smooth and creamy.
– Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
—
### **3. Coat the Chicken:**
– In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper.
– Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
– Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
– Let the coated chicken rest for **5 minutes** to help the breading set.
—
### **4. Fry the Chicken:**
– Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to **350°F (175°C)**.
– Fry chicken in batches for **12-15 minutes**, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)**.
– Remove and drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep crispy.
—
### **5. Serve:**
– Serve the crispy fried chicken alongside the buttery mashed potatoes.
– Add gravy or a side of coleslaw if desired!
—
**
Serves:** 4
Serves:** 4
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes (plus marinating) **Cook Time:** 45 minutes
**Calories:** Approximately 850 per serving**Golden, crispy fried chicken with creamy mashed potatoes—pure comfort food heaven! **
**
