Deep frying chicken legs and thighs is a tried-and-true method for achieving crispy, golden exteriors and juicy, flavorful interiors. While this classic cooking technique is simple, it’s essential to know exactly how long deos it takes to cook legs and thighs in a deep fryer for the best results. Timing and temperature are key factors in ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly without drying out or becoming greasy. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to prepare, fry, and perfect chicken legs and thighs using a deep fryer, including tips and tricks to get the crispiest, juiciest results possible.
Why Deep Fry Chicken Legs and Thighs?
Deep frying is one of the most popular ways to cook chicken legs and thighs because it ensures even cooking and crispy skin. Unlike baking or pan-frying, which can result in unevenly cooked meat or soggy skin, deep frying submerges the chicken in hot oil, which surrounds the chicken and cooks it evenly on all sides.
There are several benefits to using a deep fryer for chicken:
- Crispy, golden crust: Deep frying locks in moisture and creates a crunchy exterior that holds up even after cooling.
- Faster cooking time: Since the chicken is completely submerged in oil, it cooks much faster than in the oven or pan.
- Juicy, tender meat: The high heat of the oil seals in the chicken’s natural juices, ensuring that the meat inside remains tender and flavorful.
If you’re unsure about the correct internal temperature for fried chicken, you can refer to this guide on safe internal temperatures for chicken, which outlines the USDA’s recommendations for cooking poultry.
How Long Does It Take to Fry Chicken Legs and Thighs in a Deep Fryer?
To answer the question of how long does it take to cook legs and thighs in a deep fryer depends on the size of the pieces and the temperature of the oil. However, the general rule is:
- Chicken legs (drumsticks): Fry for 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F to 375°F.
- Chicken thighs: Fry for 15 to 18 minutes at the same temperature.
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, the internal temperature of the meat should reach 165°F. A meat thermometer is the best way to confirm that the chicken is safely cooked without over-frying and drying out the meat.
Step-by-Step Frying Process
- Preheat the oil: Set your deep fryer or pot to heat the oil to 350°F to 375°F. A cooking thermometer is essential for maintaining the correct oil temperature, as fluctuating heat can lead to unevenly cooked or soggy chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Season your chicken legs and thighs with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours to tenderize the meat.
- Coat the chicken: For extra crunch, coat the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture or breadcrumbs. You can also double-dip the chicken by coating it in buttermilk and flour twice to achieve a thicker, crispier crust.
- Fry the chicken: Once the oil has reached the proper temperature, carefully lower the chicken pieces into the oil. Fry the drumsticks for 12 to 15 minutes and the thighs for 15 to 18 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165°F. If it has not, continue frying in 2-minute intervals and recheck the temperature until it’s fully cooked.
- Drain and serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the fryer and let it drain on a wire rack. This will allow the excess oil to drip off and prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Choosing the Right Oil for Deep Frying Chicken
The type of oil you use for deep frying has a significant impact on both the flavor and texture of the chicken. It’s crucial to choose an oil with a high smoke point, which ensures the oil can withstand the high temperatures required for deep frying without breaking down and affecting the taste.
Best Oils for Frying Chicken:
- Peanut oil: This oil has a high smoke point of 450°F and a neutral flavor, making it an ideal choice for deep frying chicken. Its high stability at high temperatures ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without becoming greasy.
- Canola oil: Known for its affordability and neutral taste, canola oil also has a high smoke point of 400°F. It’s a great option for deep frying, as it imparts little flavor to the chicken and produces a light, crispy crust.
- Sunflower oil: With a smoke point of 440°F, sunflower oil is another excellent choice for deep frying chicken. It’s light in flavor and helps create a perfectly crispy exterior.
Preparing Chicken Legs and Thighs for Frying
Before deep frying chicken legs and thighs, proper preparation is key to ensuring the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to prepare the chicken before it hits the fryer:
1. Clean and Pat Dry the Chicken
Thoroughly clean the chicken pieces by rinsing them under cold water. After cleaning, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures that the seasoning adheres well and prevents the oil from splattering during frying.
2. Marinate the Chicken
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight. Buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat and adds a subtle tangy flavor. You can enhance the marinade with hot sauce or your favorite seasonings like garlic, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
3. Season the Chicken
Season the chicken with a mix of salt, pepper, and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme. These spices add depth and flavor to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken
After seasoning, dredge the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture or breadcrumbs. For a crispier texture, consider double dipping the chicken by coating it in buttermilk and flour twice. This creates an extra-thick, crunchy crust that many people enjoy.
Common Mistakes When Figuring Out How Long Does It Take to Cook Legs and Thighs in a Deep Fryer
Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when frying chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overcrowding the fryer: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy and unevenly cooked chicken. Always fry in small batches to maintain the correct oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Not maintaining oil temperature: If the oil temperature is too low, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become soggy. If it’s too high, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F and use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Skipping the resting period: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes on a wire rack. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and prevents the breading from becoming soggy.
Tips for Achieving Crispy and Juicy Chicken
Achieving crispy skin and juicy meat can be a challenge, but these tips will help you get the perfect fried chicken every time:
- Use a thermometer: A thermometer ensures that the oil stays at the right temperature for frying and that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents overcooking or undercooking the meat.
- Double dip the chicken: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour twice before frying. This adds an additional layer of breading that creates an extra-crispy texture.
- Drain on a wire rack: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows the oil to drain off properly and keeps the chicken crispy rather than soggy.
FAQs
How long does it take to fry chicken thighs in a deep fryer?
Chicken thighs take 15 to 18 minutes to cook in a deep fryer at 350°F to 375°F. Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.
Can I fry frozen chicken legs and thighs?
No, it’s not recommended to fry frozen chicken. Frying frozen chicken can cause oil splatters and uneven cooking. Always thaw the chicken completely before frying to ensure it cooks evenly and safely.
How much oil should I use for frying chicken in a deep fryer?
You should use enough oil to completely submerge the chicken pieces, which is usually about 2-3 inches of oil in the fryer. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy exterior.
How can I reheat fried chicken to keep it crispy?
To reheat fried chicken and maintain its crispiness, use an oven set to 375°F. Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes. This method prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions for Fried Chicken Legs and Thighs
Deep fried chicken legs and thighs pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some classic and creative serving suggestions:
- Classic sides: Serve fried chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread for a traditional comfort food meal.
- Creative sides: Try pairing fried chicken with waffles for a sweet and savory combination or serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthier option.
- Dipping sauces: Enhance the flavor of fried chicken with sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy buffalo sauce.
Conclusion
How long does it take to cook legs and thighs in a deep fryer depends on maintaining the right temperature and cooking for the recommended time. By keeping your oil temperature steady at 350°F to 375°F and ensuring the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, you’ll achieve crispy, juicy chicken every time. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create your own signature flavor. Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to fire up the deep fryer and enjoy some perfectly fried chicken!