CRUNCHY CRUMBED CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS
Ingredients:
– 8 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and set aside. This will be used later to bake the drumsticks and ensure they remain crispy.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish, the beaten eggs in the second dish, and the breadcrumb mixture in the third dish.
4. Dip each chicken drumstick into the flour, coating it well and shaking off any excess flour.
5. Dip the floured drumstick into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated.
6. Roll the drumstick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere to the chicken. Repeat the process for all drumsticks.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
8. Carefully place the coated drumsticks in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
9. Fry the drumsticks for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them over gently.
10. Once the drumsticks are nicely browned, transfer them to the wire rack on the baking sheet.
11. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
12. Remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the crunchy crumbed drumsticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce or honey mustard. They pair well with side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious and crispy drumsticks!