Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks

March 10, 2025 Odiraa

Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks

This classic dish needs little introduction, as fried chicken is a beloved favorite for many.

However, this recipe is one of the easiest and best ways to achieve ultra-crispy chicken drumsticks.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll get irresistibly crunchy skin and juicy, tender meat without the complexity of most fried chicken recipes.

Chicken drumsticks are always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe offers mouthwatering flavor, thanks to a blend of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and chili powder for extra heat.

Whether you’re preparing for a picnic, a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a special treat, these crispy fried chicken legs are a perfect choice.

They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and more.

How to Make Flavorful Crispy Fried Chicken Drumsticks

To begin, this recipe uses whole milk and eggs as wet ingredients, though you can substitute buttermilk if desired.

Meanwhile, the dry mix consists of flour and spices—there’s no need for marinating as long as you season your milk mixture with salt and black pepper for maximum flavor.

Now, follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly crispy chicken:

Prepare the wet mixture: First, whisk together milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients: Next, combine flour with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the chicken: Then, dip the drumsticks in the flour mixture, followed by the milk mixture, and then back into the flour until well coated. For extra crispiness, repeat the milk and flour coating process.
Fry to perfection: Now, heat oil to 350°F and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
Drain and serve: Finally, place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let it rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.

How Long Does It Take to Fry Chicken Drumsticks?

On average, frying chicken legs takes about 12 to 15 minutes in hot oil.

However, to ensure safety and doneness, it’s always best to check the internal temperature with a thermometer—165°F guarantees that the chicken is fully cooked.

Why Isn’t My Fried Chicken Crispy?

If your fried chicken turns out soggy instead of crispy, the oil is likely too cold.

For best results, maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the chicken absorbs excess oil, resulting in a greasy texture rather than a crispy bite.

Notes & Tips:

Best oils for frying: Peanut oil is recommended for its high smoke point and rich flavor. However, alternatives include grapeseed, canola, corn, olive, sesame, or sunflower oil.
To wash or not to wash? The debate continues—it’s up to you.
Use small chicken pieces: Larger pieces take longer to cook and may brown too much before cooking through.

Ingredients:

2 lb chicken drumsticks
1 cup flour
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Prepare the wet mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Coat the chicken: Dip each drumstick in the seasoned flour, then in the milk-egg mixture, and again in the flour.
Heat the oil: Preheat oil to 350°F and carefully place coated drumsticks into the hot oil.
Fry until golden: Cook on medium heat until golden brown, crispy on the outside, and fully cooked inside, flipping occasionally.
Drain and serve: Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel.