Lemon Tea Fried Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate dinner delight with Lemon Tea Fried Chicken! This crispy, flavorful twist on classic fried chicken elevates your mealtime with a unique blend of lemon tea and spices. Discover the secrets to achieving juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly crunchy coating that will impress your family and friends. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Click through for the full recipe and get started on this delicious culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

2 cups buttermilk

2 tablespoons strong brewed lemon tea (cooled)

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, brewed lemon tea, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This will make your fried chicken extra crispy.

Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).

Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the flour. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate.

Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, turning halfway. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the fried chicken on a vibrant platter with wedges of lemon and a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color. Pair with a side of coleslaw or a crisp salad for a refreshing accompaniment.