Zesty Fried Chicken
Get ready to elevate your fried chicken game with this irresistible Zesty Fried Chicken recipe, a perfect blend of crispy, golden perfection and bold, citrusy flair. Marinated in a tangy buttermilk mixture infused with garlic and spices, these succulent chicken drumsticks are then coated in a seasoned flour-cornstarch mixture for extra crunch. The magic touch? A sprinkle of fragrant lemon zest while the chicken is still piping hot, adding a zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with its crisp, savory crust. Perfect for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or anytime comfort food cravings hit, this fried chicken is served with fresh lemon wedges for a refreshing twist. With simple ingredients and an easy deep-frying technique, this recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken with every bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken drumsticks
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 4 cups Vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 4 pieces Lemon wedges
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, remaining 1 teaspoon of paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Remove the chicken drumsticks from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
While the chicken is still hot, sprinkle it with lemon zest for a zesty punch of flavor.
Serve the Zesty Fried Chicken immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2595 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 232.9 g | 299% | |
| Saturated Fat | 37.4 g | 187% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 134.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 181 mg | 60% | |
| Sodium | 1376 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 90.6 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.5 g | ||
| Protein | 55.8 g | 112% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 4.8 mg | 26% | |
| Potassium | 811 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
