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Crispy Fried Chicken Legs: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Crunch


  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Imagine sinking your teeth into golden, perfectly seasoned chicken legs with a crispy coating that gives way to juicy, tender meat inside. Crispy Fried Chicken Legs are the epitome of comfort food, loved for their irresistible crunch and rich flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen, making it perfect for family dinners, parties, or simply indulging in your fried chicken cravings.


Ingredients

For the Brine:

  • 1 liter hot water (34 fl oz)
  • 20 g salt (0.7 oz)
  • 20 g sugar (0.7 oz)
  • 10 g garlic, minced (0.4 oz)
  • 6 chicken legs

For the Coating:

  • 300 g flour (11 oz)
  • 200 g corn starch (7.1 oz)
  • 10 g sweet paprika (0.4 oz)
  • 5 g black pepper (0.2 oz)
  • 10 g salt (0.4 oz)
  • 10 g oregano (0.4 oz)

For the Egg Wash:

  • 2 eggs
  • 100 ml water (3.4 fl oz)

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (as needed)

Instructions

1. Brine the Chicken:

  • In a large bowl, mix 1 liter of hot water with 20 g of salt, 20 g of sugar, and 10 g of minced garlic until fully dissolved.
  • Submerge the chicken legs in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

2. Prepare the Coating:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 300 g of flour, 200 g of corn starch, 10 g of sweet paprika, 5 g of black pepper, 10 g of salt, and 10 g of oregano. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Make the Egg Wash:

  • Beat 2 eggs in a separate bowl and mix in 100 ml of water. Whisk until smooth.

4. Prep the Chicken:

  • Remove the chicken legs from the brine and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.

5. Coat the Chicken:

  • First, dredge each chicken leg in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Next, dip the chicken legs into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off.
  • Finally, dredge the chicken legs in the flour mixture again, pressing firmly to ensure the coating sticks.

6. Heat the Oil:

  • Fill a deep skillet or pot with vegetable oil, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

7. Fry the Chicken:

  • Carefully place the coated chicken legs into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if needed.
  • Cook the chicken legs for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Drain and Serve:

  • Remove the fried chicken legs from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  • Serve immediately while hot, paired with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Brine Time: For the juiciest chicken, brine for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
  • Double Coating: Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken for an extra-thick, crispy coating.
  • Reheating Leftovers: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to maintain crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American