INGREDIENTS
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16 slices bacon
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons baking powder
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1 tablespoon sugar
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Kosher salt
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3 large eggs plus 1 egg white
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3 cups buttermilk, plus more if needed
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1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
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Cooking spray
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For the chicken:
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3 cups peanut or vegetable oil, for frying
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2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
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1 teaspoon sweet paprika
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch-wide strips
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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Maple syrup, for serving