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Tuga Pops − Sunday, April 5, 2020, 6 Years ago in Chicken Recipes
4 out of 5 with 12 ratings

Crispy Fried Chicken Legs (Frango Frito) Recipe

Savor crispy fried chicken legs marinated in garlic, paprika, and mustard. Golden, juicy, and perfect with dipping sauce for any occasion!
1 h 40 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 10 min Cooking Time 30 min

You will love this Crispy Fried Chicken Legs (Frango Frito) Recipe

Indulge in the mouth-watering delight of Crispy Fried Chicken Legs, or Frango Frito! Marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and mustard, these succulent chicken pieces are fried to golden perfection. Perfect for sharing, serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a finger-licking experience that’s sure to impress. Get ready to savor every crunchy bite!


Ingredients

8 chicken legs (drumsticks and the thighs)4 cloves of garlic, chopped1 tablespoon of paprika7 tablespoons of white wine (100 ml)2 tablespoons of mustardSalt and pepper (to taste)

Equipment:

Mixing bowlFrying panMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoonsTongsAbsorbent paper

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Marinate the chicken with the paprika, mustard, garlic cloves, salt, pepper and white wine for about 1 hour.
  2. Drain the chicken from the marinade and fry it in hot oil.
  3. Once fried, remove the chicken from the heat and drain it on absorbent paper.

Recipe Tips

Marinate the chicken legs in the white wine, garlic, paprika, mustard, salt, and pepper for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.
For extra crispy skin, after marinating, pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels before frying. Moisture on the skin can prevent it from becoming crispy.
Avoid overcrowding the frying pan or deep fryer. Fry the chicken legs in batches if necessary, as too many at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy skin instead of the desired crispiness.
Adapted from a Recipe by: Receitas de Portugal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the white wine in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute white wine with a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar or white grape juice can also work as substitutes.

How should I store leftovers of the fried chicken?

After frying, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. Keep the leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

What should I do if the chicken is not crispy after frying?

If the chicken isn't crispy, it may be due to excess moisture before frying. Make sure the chicken is well-drained after marinating, and you can also coat it with a thin layer of flour or cornstarch just before frying to enhance the crispiness.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and slightly effervescent wine complements the crispy and savory flavors of fried chicken with its refreshing acidity.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - The bright citrus notes and crispness of Sauvignon Blanc enhance the richness of the fried chicken while cutting through the fat.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This popular lager offers a balanced malt profile and refreshing finish that pairs wonderfully with fried foods.

General: American Pale Ale - The hoppy and citrusy character of an American Pale Ale complements the spices and richness of the chicken, making it a great match.

Other Beverages

Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, especially with lemon, provides a cool counterbalance to the savory, crunchy chicken.

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Tuga Pops

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