Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 8 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, etc.)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lemon Pepper Seasoning:

• Zest of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons black pepper (coarsely ground)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

For Garnish (optional):

• Freshly chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over it, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.
2. Prepare the Lemon Pepper Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, coarsely ground black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
3. Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish or large resealable plastic bag, mix the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
5. Heat the oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time, without overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
7. Drain and season with Lemon Pepper: Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. While the chicken is hot, generously sprinkle the Lemon Pepper Seasoning mixture over each piece of chicken.
8. Garnish and serve: Optionally, garnish the Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken before eating.

This Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken recipe brings a burst of citrusy and peppery flavor to classic fried chicken. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences and enjoy this zesty and aromatic dish!