Description
Crispy Chicken Lollipops
Ingredients:
Chicken drumsticks
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Salt
Pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Lemon zest
Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Eggs
Milk
Vegetable oil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, and fresh herbs in a bowl.
Whisk eggs and milk in a separate bowl.
Coat chicken drumsticks in flour mixture, then dip in egg mixture, and coat again in flour mixture.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot.
Fry chicken drumsticks until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on paper towels.
Bake in the oven for 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.
#LemonHerbChickenLollipops
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: Take 8-10 chicken drumsticks. Using a sharp knife, cut and push the meat down from the top of the bone to form a “lollipop.” Ensure the meat is fully gathered at the bottom.
2. Make the Dry Mix: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 tsp each of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the zest of one lemon and 1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh herbs.
3. Make the Wet Mix: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk until smooth.
4. Breading Station: Set up your station: bowl of dry mix, bowl of wet mix, and a clean plate. Dredge each lollipop thoroughly in the dry mix, then dip in the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat again in the dry mix, pressing to adhere.
5. First Fry: In a deep pot or fryer, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the lollipops in batches for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked to 165°F internally.
6. Drain and Crisp: Drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Then, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes for ultimate crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy lollipops immediately while hot. They pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or a cool ranch. For a complete meal, serve alongside crispy french fries, a fresh garden salad, or coleslaw. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and fresh herb sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
To make Lemon Herb Chicken Lollipops: Form the drumsticks into lollipops. Create a seasoned flour mix and an egg wash. Double-coat the chicken in the flour, egg, then flour again. Deep fry until golden and cooked through, then finish in a hot oven for 5 minutes to maximize crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, for a healthier version. Place breaded lollipops on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.
Can I use different herbs? Absolutely. Dried herbs work too; use 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme in place of fresh. Italian seasoning is also a great blend.
Why double-coat the chicken? The double coating (dry-wet-dry) creates a thicker, craggier, and much crispier crust that adheres better during frying.
What’s the purpose of the oven step? The brief bake ensures the chicken is fully cooked through while crisping the skin further and removing any excess oil from frying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Fryer: Frying too many at once drops the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy chicken. Fry in small batches.
- Incorrect Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer. Oil that’s too cool causes sogginess; too hot burns the coating before the chicken cooks.
- Skipping the Rest: Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating set and stick better.
- Not Pushing Meat Fully: Ensure all the meat is compacted at the bottom for the classic “lollipop” look and even cooking.
Conclusion
These Lemon Herb Chicken Lollipops are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining a juicy interior with an incredibly crispy, flavorful crust. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this impressive appetizer or main dish. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs elevate simple chicken into a special occasion treat. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
