How to Cook Crispy Fried Drumsticks

Crispy fried drumsticks are a classic dish loved by many, perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a cozy dinner at home. With the right technique, you can achieve perfectly golden and crunchy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create delicious crispy fried drumsticks.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
• For the Coating:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Drumsticks

To ensure your chicken is flavorful and tender, start by marinating the drumsticks:

1. In a large bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the drumsticks and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
3. Pour in the buttermilk, ensuring all the chicken is submerged. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar to create a buttermilk substitute.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

2. Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the coating:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Set up a dredging station with the marinated chicken on one side and the coating mixture on the other.

3. Dredge the Drumsticks

1. Remove a drumstick from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off.
2. Dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Press the coating onto the chicken to help it adhere.
3. Place the coated drumstick on a wire rack or a plate. Repeat with the remaining drumsticks.

4. Heat the Oil

1. In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 2-3 inches of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s ready.

5. Fry the Drumsticks

1. Carefully lower the drumsticks into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried drumsticks to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle. Serve your crispy fried drumsticks hot with your favorite dipping sauces, coleslaw, or a side of mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Drumsticks

• Don’t skip the marinating step. It not only enhances flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy.
• Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature. Too hot and the coating will burn before the chicken cooks; too cool and the chicken will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy.
• Let the coated drumsticks rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better during frying.
• Keep the fried chicken warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven if you’re frying in batches.

In the end, all that remains is to say to you

Crispy fried drumsticks are a delicious treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With the right marinade, coating, and frying technique, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy your crispy creations!