CRISPY LEMON-FRIED CHICKEN

Crispy Lemon-Fried Chicken image

"THIS IS my husband's favorite chicken dish. He loves it done very crispy and well browned. The steps of soaking the chicken pieces in salted lemony water and re-crisping are the secrets to this recipe."

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 1h5m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

2 broiler/fryer chickens (2 to 3 pounds each), cut up or 16 pieces of chicken
3-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Oil for deep-fat frying
2 tablespoons hot water

Steps:

Place chicken pieces in a large bowl; add 3 teaspoons salt, lemon juice and enough water to cover chicken. Cover and refrigerate overnight. , Drain thoroughly. In a resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, paprika, pepper and remaining salt. Add chicken pieces; seal bag and toss to coat. , In a large skillet, heat 1/2 in. of oil to 375°. Add chicken; brown on all sides, about 20 minutes. Reduce heat. Carefully add water; cover and cook for 20 minutes or until juices run clear. Uncover; cook 10 minutes longer or until chicken is crisp.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 550 calories, Fat 39g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 104mg cholesterol, Sodium 1123mg sodium, Carbohydrate 12g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 35g protein.