Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks: Southern Comfort

Craving Crispy? Let's Talk Fried Chicken Drumsticks !

Ever get that hankering ? you know, the one where only fried chicken drumsticks will do? honestly, it hits me at least once a month.

We're diving head-first into a recipe that delivers that southern comfort food vibe right in your own kitchen. it's proper tasty and you'll keep making it!

The Lowdown on This Clucking Good Recipe

This isn't just any fried chicken drumsticks recipe . it's inspired by classic southern techniques. but don't worry, it's totally doable for us mere mortals.

It takes about an hour-ish plus marinating time, so plan ahead. this recipe makes enough to feed a family. get ready for some serious nom-nom action.

Why You'll Clucking Love This

One of the best bits? this recipe is surprisingly forgiving. plus, with homemade fried chicken drumsticks, you control the salt and oil.

It's perfect for a weekend treat or a casual get-together. what makes this recipe special is the perfect ratio of flavour! we think you'll agree.

Key Ingredients

• Chicken Drumsticks: These are our glorious foundation! Look for ones that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
• The Brine: Cold water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper. This is magic!.
• The Coating: All-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper. It is the secret to crispy fried chicken drumsticks .
• Frying Oil: Vegetable or peanut oil. Don't scrimp here.

What’s So Good About These Air Fried Drumsticks Recipe ?

So, this recipe isn’t actually for air fried drumsticks recipe . but hear me out!. a fried chicken drumstick made well is a taste sensation that you can not replace.

You can look at an air fryer fried chicken recipe and you might be happy with the result, but you need to try this once and you'll see the difference.

The Secret to Southern Perfection and How to Fry Chicken Drumsticks

This method, while straightforward, delivers southern fried chicken drumsticks level flavor. the brine infuses the chicken with moisture and flavour, making sure it stays juicy, which is important for the best fried chicken drumsticks recipe .

And the double-dredge (totally optional, but worth it!) creates a seriously crispy crust, the perfect antidote to the juicy inside.

Trust me, that's what we're all looking for in healthy fried chicken recipes !

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you know what you need, let's get into the nitty-gritty of making the crispy fried chicken drumsticks of your dreams!

Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks: Southern Comfort Recipe Card

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Preparation time:25 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4-6 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 cups (950 ml) cold water
• 1/4 cup (55g) kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 6-8 chicken drumsticks, skin on (approximately 2-2.5 lbs / 900g-1.1kg)
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons (24g) baking powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups (950 ml) vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)

Instructions:

• Combine brine ingredients in a large bowl until salt and sugar are dissolved. Add drumsticks, ensuring they are submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours.
• In a shallow dish, combine all the coating ingredients. Whisk well to ensure even distribution.
• Remove drumsticks from the brine and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. One at a time, dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Press the flour into the chicken to help it adhere. Tap off excess flour.
• Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• Carefully place 2-3 drumsticks into the hot oil (don't overcrowd the pan). Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick. Adjust heat as needed to maintain consistent oil temperature.
• Remove the fried drumsticks from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:450-550

Fat:25-35g

Fiber:0g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Ingredients & Equipment

Right, let's talk about what you'll need to make some proper fried chicken drumstick s. we're aiming for crispy fried chicken drumsticks , the kind your nan would be proud of.

Forget that bland stuff, we're making southern fried chicken drumsticks worthy of the name. it's easier than you think, honestly!

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Down to Business

Okay, here's the list. Get your pen and paper ready, or just bookmark this page, innit?

• Brine Time:
  • 4 cups (950 ml) cold water: Tap water is fine, unless yours smells a bit dodgy.
  • 1/4 cup (55g) kosher salt: Don't skimp on the salt, it’s key.
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar: Just your standard white sugar will do.
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked: Adds a nice bite, but ground pepper works in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is where the magic happens, mate. Adds a smoky depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Granulated garlic is your friend.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a bit of oomph , if you're feeling brave.
  • 6-8 chicken drumsticks (around 2-2.5 lbs / 900g-1.1kg ): Get good quality ones, makes all the difference!
• Coating Commotion:
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: Plain flour, nothing fancy.
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch: Helps with the crispiness, trust me.
  • 2 tablespoons (24g) baking powder: This gives it that lovely lift.
  • 2 teaspoons salt: Again, don't be shy.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground is best.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: More garlic is always good.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a bit of depth.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Can't get enough of that smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of herby goodness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Ditto.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): More heat? Why not!
• Frying Frenzy:
  • 4 cups (950 ml) vegetable oil or peanut oil: Go for a neutral oil with a high smoke point.

The quality of your drumsticks is key! Look for chicken with good color and firm flesh. Nobody wants dodgy chicken.

Seasoning Notes: It's All About That Flavor

Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! that's what i say if you like a bit more kick, add some chili flakes.

Want it more savory? throw in some more garlic. think about trying to do this air fry drumsticks recipe at one point too!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid

You don't need a ton of gear for this.

• Large bowl: For brining that chicken.
• Shallow dishes: For dredging the chicken in flour.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: A good, heavy-bottomed one.
• Kitchen thermometer: Absolutely essential for getting the oil to the right temperature. Aim for 325- 350° F ( 160- 175° C ).
• Tongs: To flip the chicken without burning yourself.
• Wire rack: For draining the cooked chicken.

Don't have a Dutch oven? A large, deep skillet will do. No kitchen thermometer? Get one! Seriously, it's a game changer.

Making homemade fried chicken drumsticks is easier than you think! And once you get the hang of it, you might never go back to store-bought!

Cooking Up a Storm: Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks !

Right, let's talk comfort food. i'm talking about the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside: fried chicken drumsticks ! and, honestly, who doesn't love a bit of southern fried chicken drumsticks ? we're not aiming for kentucky levels of secret recipes here, just seriously delicious homemade fried chicken drumsticks .

It's easier than you think to make the best fried chicken drumsticks recipe at home. let's get cracking, shall we?

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First, the mise en place . it sounds fancy, but it just means "everything in its place". get all your ingredients measured out.

Chop any veggies, if you're doing a side dish. safety first, obvs: keep raw chicken away from everything else. we want tasty crispy fried chicken drumsticks , not a dodgy tummy!

For the brine, mix 4 cups water, 1/4 cup salt, 2 tablespoons sugar, and spices in a bowl. make sure it's properly dissolved.

Now, you wanna submerge those 6-8 drumsticks in there. at least 30 minutes in the fridge, but honestly, a few hours? chef's kiss.

That way you can create healthy fried chicken recipes .

Frying Time: Turning Chicken into Gold

1. Dry those drumsticks. Seriously, pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Mix your flour and spices. A right good mix, mind you.
3. Dredge each drumstick. Make sure it's fully coated! For extra crispy fried chicken drumsticks , dredge twice.
4. Heat your oil to between 325- 350° F . A thermometer is your best friend here. If you are using an Air Fryer Fried Chicken , preheat to 400F and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Fry in batches. Don't overcrowd the pan! About 6- 8 minutes per side should do it. If you like Air Fry Drumsticks Recipe , 15- 18 minutes on each side is a good choice.
6. Check the temperature: it needs to hit 165° F internally. Use a thermometer, yeah?
7. Drain on a wire rack. Let them rest.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Success

Honestly, don't skip the brine. it makes a massive difference. also, dry brining overnight is amazing for extra crispy skin, just give them a good rub the day before.

Also, don't forget to rest the chicken - it lets the juices redistribute. if you need to feed lots of people, look for a fried chicken drumsticks recipe that works for large batches.

A common mistake? overcrowding the pan. it lowers the oil temperature. next thing you know, you are looking for how to fry chicken drumsticks again! and you end up with soggy fried chicken drumstick .

No one wants that, eh?

I remember the first time i tried making this. the oil wasn't hot enough and the chicken was proper greasy.

Lesson learned: patience is key! and a good thermometer. now go make some amazing air fried drumsticks recipe!

Right, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of this fried chicken drumstick recipe. we've all been there, staring at a recipe wondering, "okay, but what if.

..?" don't you worry your pretty little head. i've got you covered.

Recipe Notes: Your Fried Chicken FAQ Answered

Serving Suggestions: Beyond Just Chicken

Okay, so you've got this mountain of golden-brown crispy fried chicken drumsticks . Congrats! But what goes with it? Honestly, the sky's the limit.

Plating and presentation? think rustic. big platter, maybe some parsley sprigs. for sides, i reckon you can't go wrong with a classic coleslaw.

The creaminess cuts through the richness of the chicken. mac and cheese? absolutely. corn on the cob is a winner in summer.

And to wash it all down? sweet tea or lemonade, obvs.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Cluck Going

So, you've made a massive batch of this best fried chicken drumsticks recipe , and you have leftovers? Good on you! Here's how to keep them decent.

• Refrigeration: Pop those leftover drumsticks in an airtight container. They'll be good in the fridge for 3-4 days .
• Freezing: Fancy saving some for later? Freeze the cooled drumsticks individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months .
• Reheating: Honestly, the oven's your best bet. Reheat at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through, about 15- 20 minutes. It helps crisp them up a bit. I've also tried the air fryer fried chicken method. Not bad, not bad at all.

Variations: Tweak It, Baby!

Feeling a bit adventurous? Let's mess with this fried chicken drumsticks recipe .

• Dietary Adaptations: Need a gluten-free version? Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Easy peasy. Looking for some healthy fried chicken recipes ? Try to bake with air fry drumsticks recipe , and if baking use less oil and bake it.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the summer, a fresh corn and tomato salad is AMAZING alongside this Southern fried chicken drumsticks . In the autumn, maybe some roasted root vegetables. Honestly, play around with it!

Nutrition Basics: The Truth About Chicken

Alright, let's be real. Homemade fried chicken drumsticks aren't exactly health food. BUT! It's all about balance.

Each serving has roughly 450-550 calories, 35-45g of protein, 25-35g of fat, 20-30g of carbs, and 800-1000mg of sodium. protein? ace! fat? yeah, a bit much.

Sodium? careful with that. the real health benefit? pure, unadulterated joy. (and maybe some protein, lol.)

Wrap-Up: Happy Clucking!

Honestly, making this air fried drumsticks recipe is easier than you think. it's a bit of effort, yeah, but the reward is so worth it.

Plus, you get to lick your fingers. what's not to love? go on, give it a bash. you'll be chuffed you did!