Lemon Fried Chicken Recipe

Enjoy the irresistible crunch and juicy flavor of classic fried chicken without the guilt! This recipe achieves perfectly crispy skin and tender meat by pan-frying then baking, making it a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Perfect for those with sensitive stomachs, this recipe is light yet satisfying, bursting with bright lemon flavor. Say goodbye to greasy fried chicken and hello to a healthier, happier mealtime!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 80 mins

Calories 1185 kcal

Protein 132g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Lemon Fried Chicken

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Salt
1 teaspoon salt
Thyme
Marjoram
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
Fresh Lemon Rind
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 large eggs
Lemon wedges (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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How to Make Lemon Fried Chicken

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional).
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Dip each chicken piece (about 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks) in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Brown on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley (optional).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

22 g

Sugar

Fat

101g

Carbs

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Side Dishes Poultry Chicken Recipes The Americas American Southern Healthy Game Day Recipes Baking

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Lemon Fried Chicken?

Lemon Fried Chicken takes about 100 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 80 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Lemon Fried Chicken?

Lemon Fried Chicken has approximately 1185 calories per serving, with about 132 g protein, 5 g carbohydrates and 143 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Lemon Fried Chicken?

The key ingredients for Lemon Fried Chicken are Chicken, Lemon Juice, Cooking Oil, Garlic Salt, Salt, Thyme. See the full list with measurements above.