Crispy Deep-Fried Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

 

Crispy Deep-Fried Chicken with Lemon Butter Sauce

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

1 whole chicken (around 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces (breast, wings, thighs, and drumsticks)

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil for frying

For the lemon butter sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for even deeper flavour.

2. Prepare the coating:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.

3. Heat the oil:

• Heat enough vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot to a temperature of 350°F (175°C).

4. Fry the chicken:

• While the oil heats, remove the chicken pieces from the marinade and dredge them in the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
• Carefully lower the chicken pieces one at a time into the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot, fry in batches if needed.
• Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

5. Make the lemon butter sauce:

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Serve:

• Plate the fried chicken and pour the lemon butter sauce over it. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Tips:

• To ensure even cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C).
• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken instead of deep-frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: approximately 700
• Protein: 50g
• Fat: 45g
• Carbs: 20g

Please note: Deep-fried food is generally high in calories and fat. While this recipe can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it's important to maintain a balanced diet overall.