Start by rinsing the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create the seasoned flour.
Pour the buttermilk into a shallow dish. Dip each piece of chicken in the buttermilk, ensuring it is fully coated.
Next, dredge the buttermilk-coated chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing down to adhere the flour to the chicken well.
Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 10 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil using tongs and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.