Introduction
Crispy fried chicken drumsticks are one of the most loved comfort foods in the world. This recipe is all about making juicy chicken inside with a crunchy golden outside that makes every bite exciting. Many people think fried chicken is hard to make at home, but the truth is that it can be very simple if you follow clear steps. You do not need fancy tools or chef level skills. With basic ingredients and a little patience, you can cook drumsticks that taste like they came from a great restaurant. This guide is written in very easy English so even first time cooks can follow it without stress.
People love crispy fried chicken drumsticks because they are full of flavor and fun to eat. The crispy outer layer gives a satisfying crunch, and the inside stays soft and juicy. Kids love them, adults love them, and they are perfect for sharing with friends and family. The smell of chicken frying in the kitchen makes everyone hungry and happy. This recipe also allows you to control the spices and salt, so you can make it exactly how you like. You can make it mild, spicy, or extra seasoned depending on your taste.
This recipe is perfect for weekend meals, family dinners, parties, and small celebrations. It is also great when you want comfort food after a long day. Some people make fried chicken for emotional comfort, while others enjoy it as a high protein meal after exercise. Drumsticks are budget friendly and easy to handle, which makes them great for beginners. If you want a meal that feels special but uses simple steps, this crispy fried chicken drumsticks recipe is a perfect choice for your kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need
Chicken drumsticks 10 pieces about 1.2 kg
Buttermilk 2 cups
All purpose flour 2 cups
Cornstarch half cup
Salt 2 teaspoons
Black pepper 1 teaspoon
Red chili powder 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Mixed dried herbs half teaspoon optional
Eggs 2 large
Water 3 tablespoons
Cooking oil for deep frying about 1 liter or as needed
Optional extra seasoning for more flavor
Hot sauce 2 tablespoons
Fresh crushed garlic 1 teaspoon
Step by Step Method
Step 1
Wash the chicken drumsticks under clean running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken helps the coating stick better and gives more crispiness.
Step 2
Take a large bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Add one teaspoon salt and half teaspoon black pepper. If you like a little heat, add the hot sauce too. Mix well. Put all the drumsticks into this bowl and make sure each piece is covered in the liquid.
Step 3
Cover the bowl and keep it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For best taste, leave it overnight. This soaking step makes the chicken tender and juicy inside.
Step 4
When you are ready to cook, take out the chicken and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Do not fry very cold chicken because it can cook unevenly.
Step 5
In another large bowl, add the all purpose flour and cornstarch. Add the remaining salt, black pepper, red chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs. Mix everything very well so the spices spread evenly.
Step 6
In a small bowl, crack the eggs and add water. Beat them together until smooth. This egg mix helps create a thick coating.
Step 7
Take one drumstick from the buttermilk. Let extra liquid drip off. Dip it into the flour mixture and coat it well. Press the flour onto the chicken with your fingers.
Step 8
Now dip the floured drumstick into the egg mixture. After that, place it back into the flour bowl again. Coat it a second time. This double coating makes the crust thick and crispy.
Step 9
Place the coated drumstick on a plate. Repeat the same process for all drumsticks. Let them rest for 10 minutes. This rest time helps the coating stick better during frying.
Step 10
Take a deep pan or deep pot. Pour enough oil so the chicken pieces can be fully covered while frying. Heat the oil on medium heat. To check if oil is ready, drop a small bit of flour into it. If it bubbles and rises, the oil is hot enough.
Step 11
Carefully place a few drumsticks into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches so the temperature stays steady.
Step 12
Fry each batch for about 12 to 15 minutes. Turn the drumsticks every few minutes so they cook evenly on all sides. The outside should become deep golden and crispy.
Step 13
Check doneness by cutting into one piece near the thickest part. The meat should be fully cooked and the juices should run clear, not pink.
Step 14
Remove the fried drumsticks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps remove extra oil.
Step 15
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside and improves taste.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This crispy fried chicken drumsticks recipe is special because it is designed for beginners and busy home cooks. The steps are simple and clear, and the ingredients are easy to find in most kitchens. The soaking process in buttermilk makes the chicken very tender, which means even if you fry a little longer, it still stays juicy inside.
Another great point is the double coating method. This gives a strong crunchy layer that many people love in restaurant style fried chicken. The mix of flour and cornstarch creates a lighter and crispier crust compared to flour alone. The spice blend is balanced, so it gives flavor without being too strong. You can also adjust it easily.
From a nutrition point of view, drumsticks provide good protein, iron, and energy. When eaten in proper portions with salad or vegetables, they can be part of a satisfying meal. Cooking at home also lets you control oil quality and seasoning, which is always better than unknown takeout food.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
Use buttermilk if possible instead of plain milk. It makes the meat softer and adds a gentle tangy taste.
Add a spoon of crushed garlic and a little chili sauce to the soaking mix for deeper flavor.
Let the coated chicken rest before frying. This small step makes a big difference in how well the crust stays on.
Keep the oil at medium heat. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn and the inside will stay raw. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become heavy.
Sprinkle a little salt and paprika on the chicken right after frying while it is still hot. This gives extra flavor on the outer crust.
Serve with fresh lemon juice, yogurt dip, or simple coleslaw for a balanced plate.
If you want extra crunch, add two tablespoons of rice flour to the flour mix.
Final Thoughts
Crispy fried chicken drumsticks are one of the most joyful foods you can cook at home. They are crunchy, juicy, and full of flavor, and they bring smiles to the table. This recipe keeps everything simple so anyone can follow it with confidence. Once you try it one time, you will see that homemade fried chicken is not difficult at all. Cook it for your family, share it with friends, and enjoy the warm feeling that comes from serving a delicious homemade meal.
Nutrition Details
Approximate values for the full recipe and per serving. Values can change based on oil use and drumstick size.
Recipe total for 10 drumsticks
Calories about 3200 kcal
Protein about 220 g
Fat about 210 g
Carbohydrates about 140 g
Per serving one drumstick
Calories about 320 kcal
Protein about 22 g
Fat about 21 g
Carbohydrates about 14 g
These numbers are estimates and meant for general guidance only.
