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Crispy Lemon-Fried Chicken

4 reviews
Test Kitchen Approved
Total Time

Prep: 15 min. + marinating Cook: 50 min.

Makes

8 servings

Updated: Oct. 02, 2022
"THIS IS my husband's favorite chicken dish. He loves it done very crispy and well browned. The steps of soaking the chicken pieces in salted lemony water and re-crisping are the secrets to this recipe."
Crispy Lemon-Fried Chicken
Crispy Lemon-Fried Chicken Recipe photo by Taste of Home
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Ingredients

  • 2 broiler/fryer chickens (2 to 3 pounds each), cut up or 16 pieces of chicken
  • 3-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • Oil for deep-fat frying
  • 2 tablespoons hot water

Directions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl; add 3 teaspoons salt, lemon juice and enough water to cover chicken. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  2. Drain thoroughly. In a resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, paprika, pepper and remaining salt. Add chicken pieces; seal bag and toss to coat.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1/2 in. of oil to 375°. Add chicken; brown on all sides, about 20 minutes. Reduce heat. Carefully add water; cover and cook for 20 minutes or until juices run clear. Uncover; cook 10 minutes longer or until chicken is crisp.

Nutrition Facts

5 ounces cooked chicken: 550 calories, 39g fat (6g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 1123mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein.