Deep frying chicken drumettes is a delicious way to achieve crispy, juicy chicken in a short amount of time. When frying at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, the exact fry time needed will depend on the size and thickness of the drumettes as well as any coatings or batters used. With some simple tips and experimentation, you can easily determine the perfect fry time for cooking your drumettes to golden brown perfection.
Key Factors That Affect Fry Time
There are several key factors that impact how long it will take to deep fry drumettes at 350 degrees:
- Size of the drumettes – Larger, thicker drumettes will take longer than smaller, thinner ones.
- Batter or coating – A wet batter or thick breading will add time to the frying process.
- Oil temperature – The temperature of the oil should be maintained as close to 350°F as possible.
- Meat temperature – Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Moisture content – Moist chicken will steam and take longer to crisp than drier chicken.
Taking these factors into account will help estimate the approximate fry time needed for your specific batch of drumettes.
General Fry Time Guidelines
As a general guideline when frying at 350°F:
- Small, uncoated drumettes will take 2-4 minutes.
- Medium drumettes may take 4-6 minutes.
- Large or extra meaty drumettes may need 6-8 minutes.
- Add 1-2 minutes for drumettes coated in a wet batter.
- Add 2-3 minutes for drumettes with a thick breading.
The best way to determine doneness is by using a digital instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the drumette, avoiding any bones. Chicken drumettes are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step-by-Step Frying Instructions
Follow these steps for crispy deep-fried drumettes:
- Pat drumettes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season with salt, pepper, or other dry spices/herbs if desired.
- Dredge drumettes in flour, cornstarch, or batter if using a coating.
- Heat at least 2-3 inches of frying oil to 350°F in a heavy pot or Dutch oven.
- Fry drumettes in batches without overcrowding the pot.
- Flip halfway during cooking to evenly brown.
- Remove drumettes when golden brown and cooked through, about 5-8 minutes.
- Drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
- Season again with salt if desired.
Frying in small batches will maintain the oil temperature better. Let the oil return to 350°F between batches. The drumettes are done when the outside is crispy and browned while the inside reaches 165°F.
Tips for Maximizing Crispness
For optimally crispy deep-fried drumettes:
- Start with very dry drumettes – Pat off any moisture with paper towels.
- Fry at the proper temperature of 350°F for even browning.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temp.
- Use a light coating like cornstarch or baking powder for extra crunch.
- Allow cooked drumettes to drain thoroughly after frying.
Crispy drumettes are best served immediately. Leaving them sitting in a hot holding tray or steam table will cause them to lose their crispy texture. Reheating in a 400 degree F oven for 5 minutes will help revive crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Deep fried drumettes make for a fun finger food to serve on their own or pair with any of these dipping sauces or sides:
- Barbecue sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese dressing
- Honey mustard
- Buffalo hot sauce
- Korean gochujang sauce
- Fries or potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Biscuits
- Corn on the cob
For a more complete meal, serve drumettes alongside macaroni and cheese, baked beans, corn bread, coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.
Common Questions
Should I brine chicken drumettes before frying?
Brining is not necessary but can help keep drumettes juicy when frying. Soak drumettes in a saltwater brine for 30-60 minutes before cooking. Rinse and pat very dry before dredging and frying.
What temperature should I fry chicken drumettes?
The ideal oil temperature for frying drumettes is between 350-375°F. This allows the outside to get crispy and browned while the inside cooks through without drying out.
What oil is best for frying drumettes?
Good frying oils include peanut, vegetable, canola and light olive oil. Avoid butter or extra virgin olive oil as they can’t withstand high fry temperatures.
How can I tell when the oil is hot enough for frying?
Use a deep fry or candy thermometer to monitor oil temperature. Alternatively, drop a small cube of bread in the oil – it should immediately start bubbling and turn golden brown in 35-40 seconds when at 350°F.
Is it better to bake or fry drumettes?
Frying gives drumettes an unmatched crispy crust, while baking makes them lower in fat and calories. Both cooking methods result in delicious drumettes!
Conclusion
Deep frying drumettes allows you to achieve tender, juicy meat encased in an ultra-crisp, golden brown crust. Monitor oil temperature, fry in small batches, and use a thermometer to test doneness. With drumettes thawed and patted dry, allow 5-8 minutes of fry time at 350°F for each batch. Adjust cook time based on size and coatings. Served hot with flavorful dipping sauces or sides, these crispy deep-fried drumettes are sure to be a hit!