How To Make Fried Chicken Drumsticks That Are So Crispy You’ll Think You’re Eating At Kfc!

Craving mouthwatering, crispy fried chicken drumsticks? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the perfect drumsticks to achieving that irresistible golden-brown exterior. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, follow these detailed instructions and you’ll be enjoying your own homemade fried chicken drumsticks in no time.

Selecting the Right Drumsticks

The key to tender, juicy drumsticks lies in choosing the best cuts. Look for plump, evenly sized drumsticks with smooth skin and no visible bruising or discoloration. Fresh drumsticks are ideal, but frozen drumsticks can also be used if thawed properly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Preparing the Chicken

1. Rinse and pat dry: Rinse the drumsticks thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture and ensures even frying.
2. Season: In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix evenly.
3. Dredge the drumsticks: Place the drumsticks in the seasoned flour mixture and toss to coat them completely. Shake off any excess flour.

Frying the Drumsticks

1. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
2. Fry the drumsticks: Carefully place the coated drumsticks into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry for 10-12 minutes: Fry the drumsticks for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Drain on paper towels: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess grease.

Achieving Crispy Skin

• Use double-dredging: Dredge the drumsticks twice in the seasoned flour mixture for extra crispy skin.
• Fry at a high temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the frying process.
• Fry in small batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy drumsticks.

Serving and Enjoying

Serve the crispy fried chicken drumsticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. Enjoy them as a standalone snack or as part of a main course with sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw.

Troubleshooting

• Drumsticks are not cooked through: Increase the frying time or check the internal temperature to ensure it has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Drumsticks are soggy: Make sure to drain the drumsticks thoroughly on paper towels and serve them immediately.
• Drumsticks are too dark: Reduce the frying temperature or decrease the frying time.

Final Thoughts:

Mastering the art of fried chicken drumsticks is a culinary skill that will impress your friends and family. By following these detailed instructions and experimenting with different seasonings and dipping sauces, you can create your own signature fried chicken drumsticks that will become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for drumsticks in this recipe. Adjust the frying time accordingly, as thighs cook more quickly than drumsticks.

2. How can I make my fried chicken drumsticks extra spicy?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoned flour mixture. You can also sprinkle additional spices on top of the drumsticks before frying.

3. How can I store leftover fried chicken drumsticks?

Store leftover fried chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.