Are you craving that irresistible crunch and juicy flavor of fried chicken but intimidated by complicated recipes? Fear not! This easy fried chicken drumsticks recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown perfection without the fuss. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is a celebration of simple, delicious dishes, a testament to the best recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving extra crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Create the Buttermilk Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken drumsticks, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for even more flavorful results. The longer they marinate, the more tender and juicy the chicken will be.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Remove the chicken drumsticks from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. For extra crispy chicken, you can repeat this process for a double breading.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken drumsticks in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the fried chicken drumsticks from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken!
Cooking Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Honey Garlic Fried Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken in a honey garlic sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken: Substitute lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per drumstick, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: Approximately 15-20g Protein: Approximately 20g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
This easy fried chicken drumsticks recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying homemade cooking can be, even on busy weeknights. Enjoy!