Soul Food Fried Chicken Platter by Goodeats5200

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.5 lb) chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs)
• 2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp seasoned salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 500 ml (2 cup) vegetable oil (for frying)
• 450g (1 lb) elbow macaroni
• 400g (14 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 250 ml (1 cup) whole milk
• 500g (1 lb) fresh string beans, trimmed
• 100g (4 oz) bacon, diced (for beans)

Instructions

1. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then dredge thoroughly in flour until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 175°C (350°F) and fry chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Boil macaroni in salted water for 8 minutes until al dente, drain, and mix with milk and 3/4 of the cheese in a baking dish.
4. Top macaroni with remaining cheese and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
5. Sauté diced bacon in a pan until crisp, add string beans with a splash of water, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until tender.