Lemon Fried Chicken Recipes

Lemon-infused fried chicken is a culinary delight that blends the tangy brightness of lemon with the satisfying crunch of fried chicken. This irresistible combination has gained popularity worldwide, with variations found in Italian, Chinese, and American cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a classic take or a creative twist, lemon fried chicken offers something for everyone. This article dives into different recipes and techniques, so you can find your perfect lemony fried chicken.

For a broader exploration of Mediterranean-inspired recipes that can accompany or complement lemon fried chicken, check out our guide on Mediterranean Diet Recipes with Air Fryer.

Classic Lemony Fried Chicken

A timeless classic, lemony fried chicken combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a subtle citrus kick. This version celebrates simplicity while delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Key Ingredients:

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• All-purpose flour
• Buttermilk
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika
• Oil for frying (like peanut or vegetable oil)

Preparation Steps:

1. Marination: Combine lemon juice, lemon zest, buttermilk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
2. Coating: In a bowl, mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it in the flour mixture.
3. Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring each piece is golden brown and cooked through (about 12-15 minutes, depending on size).
4. Finishing Touch: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the fried chicken for an extra pop of flavor.

This recipe is a nod to Giada De Laurentiis’ simple yet delectable approach to lemony fried chicken. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a satisfying meal.

Lemon Fried Chicken Recipes

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Lemon-infused fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and packed with bright citrus flavor. This Southern-meets-Mediterranean dish combines zesty lemon, savory spices, and a golden crunchy crust for an unforgettable meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 people 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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For the Chicken & Marinade

• 2 lbs 900g bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks (or boneless breast strips for tenders)
• 1 cup buttermilk (for extra tenderness)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

For the Coating

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For Frying

• Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for deep-frying, about 4 cups)
• Extra lemon zest and fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight (12 hours) is ideal for maximum tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken for Maximum Crispiness

1. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat.
2. For an extra crispy crust, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk marinade, then re-dredge in the flour mixture. (Double coating = extra crunch!)
3. Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying—this helps the crust adhere.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken in small batches for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Tip: If using boneless tenders, fry for 6-8 minutes.
4. Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil (avoid paper towels to keep it crispy).
5. Sprinkle extra lemon zest and chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420

Lemon-Pepper Fried Chicken

Lemon-pepper fried chicken takes the tanginess of lemon and pairs it with the bold, spicy kick of black pepper, creating a flavor that’s as addictive as it is delicious.

What Makes Lemon-Pepper Special? Lemon-pepper seasoning is a versatile blend of dried lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Its tangy, slightly spicy flavor makes it a standout choice for fried chicken.

How to Make It:

1. Seasoning the Chicken: Rub chicken pieces with lemon-pepper seasoning, ensuring even coverage. For added depth, marinate in buttermilk with lemon juice for 2 hours.
2. Coating: Prepare a flour mix with extra lemon zest and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Dip the chicken in buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mix.
3. Frying: Fry the chicken in hot oil (around 350°F), turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The result? Crispy, zesty chicken with a peppery kick.

This recipe, inspired by Allrecipes’ lemon-pepper fried chicken, is perfect for game nights or casual gatherings. Serve it with ranch dressing or honey mustard for a flavorful dip.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini

Spiedini, an Italian term for skewered dishes, elevates chicken to new heights by combining it with lemon, garlic, and butter. This dish is light, aromatic, and ideal for air frying.

What You’ll Need:

• Chicken tenders
• Lemon juice, garlic, and butter
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Skewers

Steps to Perfection:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Toss chicken tenders in a mixture of lemon juice, minced garlic, melted butter, and Italian herbs. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
2. Bread the Chicken: Roll the marinated chicken in Italian breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
3. Skewer and Cook: Thread the chicken onto skewers and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Adapted from Allrecipes’ chicken spiedini, this recipe is a great option for a lighter take on fried chicken without compromising flavor.

Pollo Fritto: Italian Lemon Fried Chicken

Pollo Fritto is a traditional Italian dish that highlights the natural flavors of chicken with a lemony twist. Unlike American fried chicken, this dish relies on a simple, rustic preparation that allows the ingredients to shine.

Historical Context: Originating from Italy, Pollo Fritto emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients and minimal seasoning. It’s often served at family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• Bone-in chicken pieces
• Fresh lemon juice and zest
• Olive oil (for frying)
• Flour
• Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Seasoning and Marination: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least an hour.
2. Light Coating: Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off the excess.
3. Frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet until shimmering. Fry the chicken over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Finishing Touches: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.

This recipe, inspired by Food Network’s Pollo Fritto, showcases the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine. Serve it with a side of lemon risotto or a fresh arugula salad for an authentic Italian experience.

Ming’s Lemon Chicken

Ming’s Lemon Chicken is a popular dish that brings a fusion of bold, tangy flavors and a perfect crunch. The dish is characterized by its thick lemon glaze that adds a mouthwatering zing to the crispy chicken.

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Cornstarch
• Eggs
• Lemon juice, sugar, and zest (for the glaze)
• Soy sauce and ginger (for a savory touch)

Steps to Create Ming’s Magic:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, coat with cornstarch, then dip in beaten eggs. This double coating ensures an extra crispy texture.
2. Fry the Chicken: Deep-fry the pieces in hot oil until golden and set them aside.
3. Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, mix lemon juice, sugar, zest, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger. Simmer until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
4. Combine: Toss the fried chicken in the lemon glaze until evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added flair.

Inspired by Allrecipes’ Ming’s Lemon Chicken, this dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Its sweet and sour profile makes it a family favorite.

Chinese-Style Lemon Fried Chicken

Chinese-style lemon fried chicken is a takeaway favorite, known for its crisp exterior and tangy-sweet lemon sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to recreate at home.

Key Characteristics:

• A thin, crunchy batter
• Vibrant, sweet-tart lemon sauce
• Garnished with fresh lemon slices

How to Make It:

1. Batter Preparation: Whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and water to create a light batter. Coat chicken pieces in the batter.
2. Fry to Perfection: Deep-fry the battered chicken until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
3. Lemon Sauce: In a pan, combine lemon juice, sugar, chicken broth, and a cornstarch slurry. Heat until the sauce thickens.
4. Serve: Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and garnish with lemon slices.

This recipe, inspired by Allrecipes’ Chinese lemon chicken, is perfect for pairing with fried rice or lo mein for a complete meal.

Lemon-Pepper Fried “Chicken” Tenders (Vegan)

For plant-based eaters, lemon-pepper fried “chicken” tenders offer a delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken. These vegan tenders are flavorful, crispy, and just as satisfying.

Ingredients:

• Seitan or tofu
• Lemon juice, zest, and pepper seasoning
• Plant-based milk (like almond or soy)
• Panko breadcrumbs

Steps:

1. Prepare the “Chicken”: Slice tofu or seitan into tender-sized pieces and marinate in lemon juice and pepper seasoning for 30 minutes.
2. Breading: Dip the pieces in plant-based milk, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and lemon zest.
3. Fry or Air-Fry: Deep-fry or air-fry at 375°F until golden brown.
4. Finish: Sprinkle with additional lemon-pepper seasoning and serve.

This recipe, adapted from Food Network’s vegan tenders, is a hit at vegan gatherings and pairs beautifully with a dairy-free ranch dip.

Fried Calamari with Fried Lemons and Lemon Aioli

Seafood lovers will adore fried calamari paired with crispy fried lemons and a creamy lemon aioli. This dish is a sophisticated take on incorporating lemons into fried delicacies.

Ingredients:

• Fresh calamari (rings and tentacles)
• Lemons (thinly sliced)
• Flour and cornstarch
• Mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice (for the aioli)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Calamari: Clean and pat dry the calamari. Coat with a mixture of flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Fry the Calamari and Lemons: Deep-fry the calamari until crispy, followed by the lemon slices.
3. Make the Aioli: Mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil for a creamy dipping sauce.
4. Serve: Arrange calamari and lemon slices on a platter and drizzle with aioli.

Inspired by Food Network’s fried calamari, this dish is great for a special occasion or as an appetizer for seafood-themed dinners.

Lemon Fried Chicken: Tips and Tricks

To make the perfect lemon fried chicken, attention to detail is crucial. These tips ensure crispy, flavorful results every time.

Best Practices for Marinating:

• Marinate the chicken in lemon juice for 1-2 hours. Over-marinating can break down the meat’s texture.
• Add complementary ingredients like garlic, herbs, or buttermilk for added depth.

Achieving Optimal Crispiness:

• Use a combination of cornstarch and flour for a light, crispy coating.
• Fry in hot oil (350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain consistent heat.

Balancing Lemon Flavor:

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for authentic citrus notes.
• Pair lemon with complementary spices like garlic, paprika, or black pepper to enhance the flavor without overpowering.

These tricks will elevate your lemon fried chicken game and make it the star of any meal.

Health Considerations

Fried chicken often gets a bad reputation for being indulgent, but with a few thoughtful tweaks, lemon fried chicken can be made healthier without losing its signature flavor.

Nutritional Aspects of Lemon Fried Chicken:

• Lemon juice adds vitamin C and enhances flavor without adding calories.
• Choosing skinless chicken can reduce fat content while maintaining protein levels.
• Using olive oil or air frying significantly lowers unhealthy fat intake.

Tips for a Healthier Version:

1. Bake Instead of Fry: Coat the chicken with whole-grain breadcrumbs and bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until crispy.
2. Air Fryer Method: Use an air fryer for a crispy result with minimal oil.
3. Lighten the Coating: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or whole-wheat flour for added fiber.

By swapping out a few ingredients and cooking methods, you can enjoy a lighter version of lemon fried chicken that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon fried chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Choosing the right accompaniments can transform your meal into a feast.

Ideal Side Dishes:

• Herbed Rice: A fragrant side that complements the lemony chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil and roast until tender. For more ideas, explore our recipe for Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Mushrooms and Cranberries.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture balances the crispy chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds freshness to the plate.

Beverage Pairings:

• Lemonade: Enhance the citrus notes with a refreshing glass of lemonade.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the dish.
• Iced Tea: Sweet tea or unsweetened iced tea provides a Southern-inspired pairing.

Experiment with these serving ideas to create a well-rounded meal that suits any occasion.

Cultural Significance

Lemon fried chicken has roots in various cuisines, reflecting regional flavors and traditions. From Italy’s Pollo Fritto to Chinese-style lemon chicken, the dish showcases the global love for citrus-infused poultry.

For an example of how Mediterranean cuisine elevates simple ingredients into flavorful dishes, explore our recipe for Italian Shakshuka: A Mediterranean Twist on a Classic Dish.

Role in Different Cuisines:

• Italian Cuisine: Pollo Fritto emphasizes simplicity and fresh ingredients, often served with pasta or risotto.
• Chinese Cuisine: Lemon chicken is a staple in Chinese-American restaurants, known for its glossy lemon sauce.
• American Cuisine: Lemon-pepper wings are a Southern favorite, perfect for casual gatherings and game days.

Regional Adaptations:

• In Mediterranean regions, olive oil and fresh herbs enhance the chicken’s flavor.
• In Asia, the dish often includes a sweeter lemon glaze to balance the tanginess.

These cultural variations highlight the versatility of lemon fried chicken and its universal appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking lemon fried chicken may seem straightforward, but a few missteps can affect the final result. Avoid these common pitfalls for consistently delicious chicken.

Pitfalls in Preparation:

1. Over-Marinating: Too much time in lemon juice can make the chicken mushy.
2. Uneven Coating: Ensure the chicken is evenly coated to avoid patches of undercooked batter.
3. Crowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.

For insights into perfecting techniques for crispy textures, check out our article on How Does Gordon Ramsay Cook Brussels Sprouts?

How to Ensure Consistent Results:

• Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature (ideal range: 350°F-375°F).
• Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the breading stick.
• Flip the chicken carefully to prevent the coating from falling off.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll master the art of making lemon fried chicken every time.

Lemon fried chicken is a dish that combines bold citrus flavors with the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken. Whether you prefer the classic version, a vegan alternative, or an Italian-inspired take, there’s a recipe to suit every taste. The key to success lies in balancing flavors, using fresh ingredients, and mastering cooking techniques.

For creative ways to incorporate alternative flours in recipes, take inspiration from our post on Chickpea Flour Pancakes.

Why not try one of these recipes today? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, lemon fried chicken is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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