The Best Fried Chicken Legs Recipe
Fried chicken legs are a favorite for many because they're crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. They’re easy to make at home and perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just when you’re craving something comforting. With a few simple ingredients and some frying tips, you can make delicious fried chicken legs that everyone will love.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Deep Fryer or Large Pan
- Thermometer
- Cooling Rack and Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken legs. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Rub half of this seasoning on the chicken legs.
- Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and let it marinate for 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This makes the chicken extra tender.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the remaining seasoning.
- Take each marinated leg, shake off excess buttermilk, and coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour.
- In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken legs in the hot oil, cooking in batches. Fry each batch for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Place the fried chicken on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.