Spicy fried chicken is seasoned to perfection and has a deliciously crispy outside, and a juicy inside. This recipe is quick and easy and will be the only recipe you’ll ever need!
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Fried chicken screams Summer to me, it makes me think of picnics and potlucks outside. This spicy fried chicken recipe is everything fried chicken should be like my Buttermilk Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwiches. The chicken stays juicy with perfectly crispy skin that doesn’t fall off after one bite its perfect for dinner or cold the next day for lunch. If you’d prefer to avoid frying in oil try my Southern Oven Fried Chicken it’s a family favorite or my Cheese It Chicken Tenders.
ingredients for crispy chicken legs
- Drumsticks: Chicken thighs can also be used but may take longer to fry.
- Salt: Regular table salt for the brine.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar
- Paprika: I use smoked but regular paprika works too.
- Cayenne: You can always add more if you want it really spicy.
- Oil: I like to use lard or Crisco but the best oil would be Canola or peanut oil.
How to make crispy chicken legs
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl add cold water sugar and salt and whisk until combined add the chicken pieces and soak.
- Step 2: In a shallow dish add the eggs and cayenne pepper and mix, and roll the pieces of chicken into the egg mixture.
- Step 3: Roll the chicken leg into the egg wash.
- Step 4: In another medium bowl add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and spices and mix, toss each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, and place on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet.
- Step 5: Place the breaded chicken legs onto a cooling rack and let rest.
- Step 6: Heat a dutch oven or skillet with the hot oil, then add in a few chicken pieces at a time.
- Step 7: Flipping halfway through until golden brown.
- Step 8: Place on a cooling rack to drain and rest.
