Fried chicken legs are a classic comfort food. Here’s a simple recipe for making delicious and crispy fried chicken legs:
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken legs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken legs in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results.
- Prepare the Dredge:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix the dry ingredients well.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Preheat your frying oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove each chicken leg from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Rest the Coated Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken legs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the coating to set.
- Double Dredge (Optional):
- For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the dredging process: dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then into the flour mixture again.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the chicken legs in the preheated oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Rest:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken legs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve your crispy fried chicken legs hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile, and you can customize the coating with your favorite herbs and spices.