Pioneer Fried Chicken Crispy Nostalgia in Every Bite

Ingredients

• 4 cups cold water
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 (2-3 lb) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4-6 cups vegetable oil, for frying