Lemon Pepper Honey Fried Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the tangy zest of lemon, the aromatic heat of black pepper, and the sweetness of honey, all coating crispy and succulent fried chicken. Here’s a description of this flavorful recipe:
The marinade may include lemon juice, black pepper, honey, garlic, and other seasonings, allowing the chicken to absorb the vibrant flavors.
**Lemon Zest:** The bright and refreshing flavor of lemon zest adds a citrusy kick to the fried chicken, enhancing its overall taste profile. Lemon zest, grated from fresh lemons, provides a burst of tanginess that complements the savory and sweet components of the dish.
**Black Pepper:** Ground black pepper is a key ingredient that adds a spicy and aromatic heat to the chicken coating. It pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon and sweet honey, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
**Frying Method:** The chicken is typically fried until golden brown and cooked through, either in a deep fryer or a skillet with enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces halfway. The oil should be heated to the proper temperature to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and retains its juiciness.
**Garnishes:** To finish the dish, it may be garnished with fresh lemon slices, chopped parsley, or additional cracked black pepper for added visual appeal and flavor.
**Serving Suggestions:** Lemon Pepper Honey Fried Chicken is often served hot and crispy alongside comforting sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or steamed vegetables. It’s a satisfying and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt
- 1/2 tablespoon of fresh back pepper
- 1 packet of Sazon seasoning
- 1/2 tablespoon of granulated garlic powder
- the zest of 2 lemons
- 6 to 8 cups of vegetable or canola oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of buttermilk
- 3 cups of all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of honey
- the juice of 2 lemons
- 1 lemon sliced
- fresh cracked black pepper
Season the chicken liberally with salt, pepper, Sazon, lemon zest and garlic powder. Then, in a large bowl combine the flour and cornstarch.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least a half hour. Meanwhile, add the oil to a skillet or deep pot and get it hot – about 365 degrees.
In the same bowl as the chicken, add the egg and buttermilk and combine well.
Then, dredge each piece of chicken in the cornstarch & flour mixture and shake off the excess. Then, drop each piece of chicken into the oil and fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
To make the glaze, add the honey, lemon juice, sliced lemons, and black pepper to a pot and bring to a boil. Then, pour over the cooked chicken and enjoy.