SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN WITH CREAM GRAVY

Steps:

• Put about 1 to 2 inches of oil or melted shortening in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the fat to about 350 F.Combine the flour, salt, and pepper; sift into a pie plate or wide bowl.Roll each piece of chicken in the flour and place in the hot fat. Put the largest pieces in first, in the hottest part of the pan. When all pieces are in the skillet and heat is regulated (try to keep it at 350 F), cover and cook for 5 minutes.Remove the cover and turn chicken pieces when the underside is well browned. Replace the cover for another 5 minutes and then remove it and let the chicken cook in open pan until the bottom side is browned.About 30 to 35 minutes in all will be required for cooking chicken if the pieces are not overly large. Try to resist the urge to turn the chicken more than the one time.The fat should be deep enough to cover the pieces when it boils up, but make sure you use a deep skillet, preferably one made for frying chicken and watch carefully.Serve the fried chicken hot with creamy gravy, hot biscuits, and potatoes or rice. For a side dish, try green beans, peas, or corn.