Fried Chicken Is 10x More Flavorful With A Sprinkle Of This Seasoning

There are, in our opinion, three essential components to perfect fried chicken. The first is an extra-crispy coating – some store-bought fry mix ticks that box. The second is juicy chicken, perhaps achieved with the use of evaporated milk. The third is getting oodles of flavor in both the coating and the meat. For us, lemon pepper seasoning solves that conundrum in one fell swoop. The combination of sharp lemon, peppery heat, and underlying salty boost works on several levels and is outstanding when paired with fried chicken.

The citrus helps cut through the coating (which is especially useful for chicken that's been fried in heavier oils like lard or beef tallow), while at the same time complementing the mild flavor of the meat. The cracked pepper in the seasoning brings a welcome burst of warmth, but not so much that it would put off anyone who's not a fan of heat. Meanwhile, the salt emphasizes the flavor of everything.

As for how it can be used, start with the marinade. If you're all out of ranch seasoning in which to brine your fried chicken, lemon pepper makes for a zingy and delicious sub. You can also add a generous sprinkle to your fried chicken's breading mix, echoing and amplifying the flavors that have already been absorbed by the meat.

Although many commercial versions of this seasoning mix contain lemon, pepper, and salt, people and brands have been playing around with the ingredients for years. Additions can include onion and garlic powder for savory oomph and dried bay leaf for extra depth, while others incorporate subtle flavors such as warming mace or herby, nutty fenugreek. Their slightly sweet taste profiles echo those found in fried chicken, elevating it from fast food to a more sophisticated plate.

If you want to try making your own lemon pepper seasoning, the herb and spice world can be your oyster — just don't let the added extras overwhelm the lemon. Whatever you mix in, a generous amount of lemon peel is crucial. To make sure of that citrus burst, which works so well with the mild flavor of chicken, use both finely minced and crushed peel. Black pepper is the most often used in lemon pepper seasoning, but there are no rules. You can tweak the flavor profile of your seasoning by using different colored peppercorns – green ones, for example, are fruitier and punchier than white or black and can further elevate your fried chicken.

Lemon pepper seasoning, mixed with fresh lemon juice, honey, and melted butter, also makes a great sauce for fried chicken, offering another chance to amp up those two key flavors. If you want to switch things up a little, instead of french fries, serve your lemon pepper fried chicken with roasted veggies (their char is a yummy counterpoint to the zingy chicken) or a bowl of kale slaw to present a nutritious accompaniment.