Deep-Frying Chicken Legs: The Presto Way

Frying chicken legs in a deep fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat. The time it takes to fry chicken legs in a Presto deep fryer will depend on a few factors, such as the size of the chicken legs, the temperature of the oil, and the specific model of the Presto deep fryer being used. On average, it takes around 12 to 15 minutes to deep fry chicken legs at a temperature of 350-375°F. However, it is important to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to guarantee safe consumption.

To ensure the best results when frying chicken legs in a Presto deep fryer, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, prepare the chicken legs by inspecting, cleaning, and patting them dry. Season the chicken generously with your preferred spices and herbs. You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and herbs for extra flavour. Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before frying.

When you are ready to fry, preheat your Presto deep fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 350-375°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and ensure it stays consistent. Carefully lower the chicken legs into the hot oil, being cautious to avoid overcrowding the fryer, as this can affect the oil temperature and cooking time. Fry the chicken legs in batches if necessary.

The cooking time for chicken legs in a Presto deep fryer will depend on their size, but a good guideline is to fry them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning. The chicken legs are done when they have a golden brown colour and a crispy texture. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F.

By following these steps and monitoring the cooking time and temperature, you can achieve perfectly fried chicken legs in your Presto deep fryer.

Preparing the chicken legs

Inspect and Clean the Chicken Legs

Firstly, check the chicken legs for any remaining feathers or pieces of bone. Rinse them under cold water to remove any debris or blood. It is important to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.

Pat Dry and Season the Chicken Legs

Use paper towels to pat the chicken legs dry. This step is important as excess moisture can cause the hot oil to splatter. Once they are dry, season the chicken legs generously with your chosen spices and herbs. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other seasonings you enjoy. Rub the spices evenly over the chicken legs to enhance the flavour.

Marinate the Chicken Legs (Optional)

If you have time, you can marinate the chicken legs to add an extra layer of flavour. A simple marinade of buttermilk, hot sauce, and herbs can be used for a few hours or even overnight. The buttermilk helps to tenderise the meat and infuse it with flavour.

Bring the Chicken Legs to Room Temperature

Remove the chicken legs from the refrigerator and let them sit until they reach room temperature. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from becoming tough when subjected to high heat.

By following these steps, your chicken legs will be well-prepared, enhancing their flavour and texture. They will now be ready for the next stage of the process: preheating the deep fryer.

Preheating the deep fryer

Preheating your deep fryer is a crucial step in achieving crispy and evenly cooked chicken legs. Here's a comprehensive guide to ensure your deep fryer is ready for frying:

Read the Manufacturer's Instructions:

Before you begin, it's important to consult the user manual provided by the manufacturer of your deep fryer. This will help you understand the specific settings, functions, and safety guidelines of your particular model. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure optimal results and maintain safety protocols.

Add Oil to the Deep Fryer:

The amount of oil you need will depend on the size and capacity of your deep fryer. Make sure you have enough oil to completely submerge the chicken legs. It is recommended to use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil. This type of oil can withstand high temperatures without burning and imparting unwanted flavours to the chicken.

Set the Temperature:

Most deep fryers allow you to adjust the temperature. For frying chicken legs, set the temperature to around 350°F (175°C). This is the optimal temperature to ensure that your chicken legs cook evenly, developing a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Allow the Oil to Heat Up:

Give the oil sufficient time to reach the desired temperature. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but the time may vary depending on the size and power of your deep fryer. Make sure the oil is fully heated before adding the chicken to ensure consistent cooking results.

Use a Thermometer for Accuracy:

To ensure precision, use a kitchen thermometer to check the oil's temperature. Place the thermometer in the oil and wait for it to stabilize at around 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it helps you maintain a consistent temperature throughout the frying process, preventing the chicken from becoming greasy or undercooked.

By meticulously following these steps, you will properly preheat your deep fryer, ensuring it is ready to cook your chicken legs to perfection. Remember, preheating is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavour in your fried chicken legs. Now that your deep fryer is preheated, you can proceed to the next step of frying the chicken legs!

Frying the chicken legs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Legs

Before frying, ensure your chicken legs are dry by patting them with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause oil splatter. Season generously with your chosen spices—a typical blend includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk, hot sauce, and herbs for extra flavour and tenderness.

Step 2: Preheat the Deep Fryer

Fill your Presto deep fryer with enough oil to submerge the chicken legs. The best oils for deep frying have a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for chicken legs, or 375°F for a crispier result. Allow the oil to heat up for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Legs

Using tongs or a slotted spoon, carefully place each chicken leg into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the fryer, as this will drop the oil temperature and result in greasy, unevenly cooked chicken. Fry the chicken legs in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Monitor the Oil Temperature and Cooking Time

Maintain an oil temperature of 350-375°F throughout the frying process. The chicken legs will typically take 12-15 minutes to cook, depending on their size. You can also check for doneness by using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Remove and Drain the Chicken Legs

Once the chicken legs are golden brown and cooked through, carefully remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Allow any excess oil to drain off, then place them on a wire rack to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your deep-fried chicken legs are now ready to be devoured! Serve them with your favourite sides and dipping sauces. Some classic pairings include coleslaw, mashed potatoes, potato salad, or green beans. Enjoy the fruits of your labour!

Checking the internal temperature

Use a Meat Thermometer: It's important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken legs. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken leg, being careful not to touch the bone as this can give an inaccurate reading. The safe minimum internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Allow for an Accurate Reading: Give the thermometer a few seconds to provide an accurate temperature reading. If the temperature is below the recommended 165°F (74°C), return the chicken legs to the fryer and cook for a little longer. Check the temperature again after this, and repeat the process until the desired temperature is reached.

Check Multiple Chicken Legs: If you're cooking a large batch, it's a good idea to check the internal temperature of multiple chicken legs. This ensures that all the legs are cooked properly and guarantees food safety.

Avoid Overcooking: While it's crucial to cook chicken legs to the correct internal temperature, be careful not to overcook them. Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat. As soon as the chicken legs reach 165°F (74°C), remove them from the oil to prevent overcooking and ensure juicy, tender meat.

By carefully monitoring the internal temperature of your chicken legs, you can rest assured that your meal is thoroughly cooked and safe for you and your guests to enjoy. Remember, food safety is always a top priority!

Draining and serving the chicken legs

After frying the chicken legs to perfection and ensuring they have reached the safe internal temperature, it's time to drain and serve them. Follow these steps for a delicious and appealing presentation:

Use a wire rack or paper towels to drain the chicken legs:

Place the fried chicken legs on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. This will allow any excess oil to drain off, preventing the chicken from becoming greasy and soggy.

Allow the chicken legs to cool slightly:

Give the chicken legs a few minutes to cool down before serving. This will let them firm up, making them easier to handle, and reducing the risk of burning yourself.

Serve the chicken legs immediately:

Deep-fried chicken legs are best enjoyed hot and crispy. Serve them immediately with your favourite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or hot sauce.

Garnish and plate creatively:

Add a touch of visual appeal by garnishing the chicken legs with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or sprinkling them with grated Parmesan cheese. Arrange them on a platter or serve them individually on plates for an enticing presentation.

Pair with complementary sides:

Chicken legs make a satisfying main dish and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Consider classics such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a crisp green salad.

Remember to exercise caution when handling the hot chicken legs and the deep fryer. Use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands. Now, you're ready to savour the delicious, crispy, and juicy results of your deep-fried chicken legs!

Frequently asked questions