Ingredients
4 servings
- •1 tablespoon kosher salt
- •1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- •1 teaspoon garlic powder
- •1 teaspoon onion powder
- •2 teaspoons lemon zest, about 1 lemon
- •8 bones in chicken pieces, (4 drumsticks and 4 thighs)
- •6 cups canola oil, for frying
- •2 cups all purpose flour
- •2 teaspoons baking powder
- •1 teaspoon onion powder
- •1 teaspoon garlic powder
- •1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
- •1 cup buttermilk
- •2 large egg whites
- •2 tablespoons vodka
Instructions
- Dry brine the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel and season with the salt mixture, evenly coating each piece.
- Line a large resealable container with paper towels and add the seasoned chicken. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- 30 minutes before frying, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to bring to room temperature.
- Add the canola oil to a large Dutch oven and heat over medium heat until the temperature reaches 350°F (180°C). Place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet and set nearby.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg whites, and vodka.
- Working with one piece at a time, coat the dry-brined chicken in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk mixture, then again in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Add 2–3 pieces of chicken to the hot oil and fry for 7–10 minutes, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil, transfer to the wire rack, and season with salt. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Enjoy!