Crispy Golden Fried Chicken Legs the Ultimate Comfort Food

Crispy Golden Fried Chicken Legs : The Ultimate Comfort Food

Fancy a bit of Southern charm in your kitchen tonight? You know, that lip-smacking, finger licking goodness? Ever wondered how to make truly amazing fried chicken legs ? I've got the recipe for you, and it's easier than you think! Get ready for the best comfort food you've had in a while.

A Little Bit About Chicken Legs Recipes

This isn't just any southern fried chicken recipe ; it’s an experience. This dish hails from the American South. It's deeply ingrained in their culture.

I remember my first bite of proper fried chicken legs down in Georgia. Oh my gosh! Life changing! It’s straightforward enough for a mid-week treat.

Making your own homemade fried chicken is always fun.

This easy fried chicken legs recipe is perfect for four hungry bellies. Its time to make the most delicious and crispy fried chicken legs .

Get ready to put the oven fried chicken legs out of business, it is time to learn chicken recipes from the best!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, the biggest benefit is pure, unadulterated joy. It’s also surprisingly high in protein, thanks to the chicken legs . This best fried chicken recipe is perfect for a weekend BBQ, a family get-together.

What makes it special? That double dredge! This ensures maximum crispiness.

Alright, let's get down to business. This crispy fried chicken legs recipe is gonna knock your socks off! I'm talking seriously good comfort food.

The kind that makes you wanna slap yo' mama... but don't actually do that, okay? We are going for crispy, juicy, and totally addictive! So, grab your apron, and let's do this!

Ingredients & Equipment

So, what do we need for the best fried chicken recipe ever? Don't worry. We're keeping it simple but classy.

Main Ingredients

Here's the lowdown. We're gonna make some amazing recipes learn chicken .

• For the Brine:

  • 4 cups (950ml) cold water. Use tap water. No need to be fancy.
  • ¼ cup (50g) kosher salt. This is important for flavor and moisture!
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar. Balances the salt and adds a touch of sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed. Trust me on this one!
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked. Freshly cracked is best!
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Adds a lovely herby note.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. This is the secret ingredient!
  • 8 chicken legs (about 2 lbs / 900g total). Look for plump, juicy looking legs.

• For the Dredge:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour. Plain ol' flour will do the trick.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (cornflour). This is what makes it extra crispy!
  • 1 tablespoon salt. Don't be shy!
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper. Freshly ground, if you have it!
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder. Because garlic is life.
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder. Adds a subtle savory note.
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional). For a bit of a kick!
  • 2 large eggs. Free range, if you're feeling fancy.
  • ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk. This makes the chicken super tender.
  • 2 cups (475ml) vegetable oil, for frying. Canola oil works too!

Quality indicators for chicken legs are simple. They should look pink, plump, and not slimy. Honestly, if they smell off, toss 'em!

Seasoning Notes

Okay, listen up. Seasoning is key to a southern fried chicken recipe that sings! Don't skimp! Garlic powder and onion powder are essential.

If you want to make your oven fried chicken legs just a little bit spicy, a dash of cayenne pepper will do the trick.

For flavor enhancers, Smoked paprika adds this amazing smokey flavour you won't believe that will elevate your homemade fried chicken for real!

If you don't have buttermilk, you can use plain milk with a splash of lemon juice. Let it sit for five minutes before using.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you need to fry like a pro!

• Large bowl or container for brining. Any container that will hold the chicken legs and brine.
• Shallow dishes or pie plates for dredging. Pie plates work great.
• Large heavy bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. This will maintain the oil temperature.
• Tongs. For flipping and removing the chicken.
• Instant read thermometer. This is crucial for checking the oil temperature.
• Wire rack lined with paper towels. For draining the excess oil.

Don’t have a Dutch oven? A large, deep skillet will work just fine. The most important thing is to maintain a consistent oil temperature.

So if you looking for Easy fried chicken legs recipe that is what you need to prepare yourself.

Crispy Golden Fried Chicken Legs: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Oh my gosh, you guys! Are you ready for some seriously good fried chicken legs ? This isn't just any recipe; it's the best fried chicken recipe , guaranteed to make your taste buds sing.

I'm talking super crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Let's dive in! We'll get you sorted with some chicken legs recipes .

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, let's get organized! The secret to success is prepping everything. Get your ingredients measured, spices lined up and chicken ready to go.

This is the essential mise en place for the southern fried chicken recipe ! It sounds fancy, but it just means "everything in its place.

" Honestly, it saves so much time. And remember safety first, keep raw chicken away from everything else.

step-by-step to Crispy Perfection

Here’s how we're gonna make some magic happen with this easy fried chicken legs recipe .

1. Brine Time: In a big bowl, mix 4 cups (950ml) of cold water with ¼ cup (50g) of kosher salt and ¼ cup (50g) of sugar. Add 2 crushed garlic cloves , 1 tablespoon of cracked black peppercorns , 1 teaspoon of dried thyme , and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika . Stir until dissolved. Submerge the 8 chicken legs (about 2 lbs / 900g) in the brine. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours , or overnight for even better flavour.
2. Dredge Station: In one dish, whisk together 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (cornflour), 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if you like a kick). In another, whisk 2 large eggs with ½ cup (120ml) of buttermilk.
3. Double Dip: Take the chicken out the brine, pat dry with paper towels, now dredge each leg in the flour, dip in the egg, and dredge it again in the flour. The key is to cover them completely.
4. Oil Up: Pour 2 cups (475ml) of vegetable oil into a large skillet or Dutch oven. Heat it over medium high heat until it hits 325° F ( 160° C) . A thermometer is your best friend here.
5. Fry, Baby, Fry!: Gently lower the chicken legs into the hot oil. Don't overcrowd the pan! Keep that oil temperature between 300- 325° F (150- 160° C) .
6. Golden Brown & Done: Fry for about 20- 25 minutes , flipping them now and then. Make sure the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) .
7. Drain & Devour: Pull the chicken out of the oil. Pop them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off the extra oil. Serve immediately!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Fried Chicken Game

Want to take your homemade fried chicken to the next level? Here are a few tricks. Don’t skip the brine! It's essential for juicy chicken.

If your chicken isn't that crispy fried chicken legs you need, Try double dredging. It adds an extra layer of crunch.

Don't overcrowd the pan or your chicken won't cook well. Plus, monitor that oil temp!. Honestly, folks, this fried chicken legs recipe is a winner.

This also works as a guide in understanding on How to Prepare Chicken . Trust me, you'll be making this again and again! I hope you Recipes Learn Chicken right now.

Happy frying!

Recipe Notes for the Best Fried Chicken Legs Recipe Ever!

Honestly, this fried chicken legs recipe is a game changer. But before you dive in, let's talk about a few things to make sure your chicken legs recipes turn out absolutely banging.

This southern fried chicken recipe is all about the details. You got it?

Serving Suggestions: Make it a Feast!

Okay, so you've got this pile of golden crispy fried chicken legs , right? First impressions matter! Plating matters. I like to arrange them on a platter with some fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Think restaurant vibes. Complementary sides? Coleslaw is a must, honestly. It cuts through the richness. Creamy mash potatoes and some corn on the cob are always a win, too.

For drinks? Sweet tea or some ice-cold lemonade does the trick.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Goodness Going

Right then. You've got leftover homemade fried chicken . What now? No worries. Refrigeration is your friend. Store the fried chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge.

They'll be good for about 3-4 days. Fancy freezing them? Let them cool completely. Wrap them individually in cling film, then pop them in a freezer bag.

These will last for up to 2 months. Reheating? Oven is best! Pop them in at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 15- 20 minutes.

Until they are nice and warm. Recipes Learn Chicken the right way!

Variations: Get Creative!

Feeling a bit adventurous? I get it! Want a spicier easy fried chicken legs recipe ? Add some extra cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.

A pinch of chili powder wouldn't hurt either. Doing the low-carb thing? Sub the flour for almond flour. And make sure to read the labels on everything.

How To Prepare Chicken for your best health!

Nutrition Basics: A Little Look See

Alright, let's be real. Fried chicken legs aren't exactly health food, alright? But everything in moderation. Each serving has around 450 calories.

There's about 35 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbs. But hey, it's good for the soul.

This Best fried chicken recipe might not be a superfood, but it's awesome!

Honestly, this oven fried chicken legs recipe is all about having fun. Don't stress if it's not perfect the first time.

Just keep practicing. It all comes down to it. You'll get there in the end. Now, go whip up some amazing fried chicken legs ! You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my fried chicken legs recipe are crispy, not soggy?

Crispiness is the holy grail of fried chicken! The key is to double dredge the chicken and make sure your oil temperature stays consistent (around 325°F/160°C). Don't overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature.

Finally, placing the cooked chicken on a wire rack to drain is crucial for avoiding sogginess - think of it like letting your Yorkshire puddings rest after a Sunday roast!

Can I prepare the fried chicken legs ahead of time?

While freshly fried is best, you can prep elements ahead. The chicken can be brined a day in advance. You can also dredge the chicken a few hours beforehand, but keep it refrigerated on a wire rack until ready to fry.

To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through this helps maintain some crispiness, unlike microwaving, which will make them sad and soggy!

Is brining really necessary for this fried chicken legs recipe?

Absolutely, darling! Brining is the secret weapon to unbelievably juicy chicken. It infuses the chicken with flavor and helps it retain moisture during frying. Think of it like marinating - but instead of just flavour, it's keeping your chicken succulent too.

Trust me, it's worth the extra step, and your taste buds will thank you even if you think it's a bit of a faff, you will taste the difference.

What's the best way to store leftover fried chicken legs?

Allow the fried chicken legs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep for 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer to crisp them up a bit.

Just steer clear of the microwave unless you like rubbery chicken!

Can I make this fried chicken legs recipe healthier?

You can make a few tweaks. Opt for skinless chicken legs to reduce fat. Try using a healthier oil like avocado or peanut oil for frying. Another approach is to bake or air fry instead of deep frying. While it won't be exactly the same, you'll still get a delicious result with significantly less fat.

Think of it as a "lighter" take on a classic!

What can I serve with these crispy fried chicken legs?

Fried chicken is a real crowd pleaser. For classic sides, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and corn on the cob are winners. Sauces like ranch dressing, hot sauce, or honey mustard are great too. For drinks, go with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer.

You could even add some crispy fries and some gravy to complete your classic Southern meal!