Southern Soul Food Dinner

Ingredients

• 4 pounds of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 pounds fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and additional salt and pepper.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, coating thoroughly.
4. Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Cook the Collard Greens: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the chopped collard greens, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 45 minutes, until the greens are tender.
6. Bake the Cornbread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, combine milk, oil, and eggs. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.