Crispy Fried Chicken Leg with Balsamic-Dijon Glaze -

If you are looking for a delicious and succulent meal to impress your family or friends, look no further than this Crispy Fried Chicken Leg with Balsamic-Dijon Glaze recipe. This dish not only provides a satisfying crunch and flavor from the glaze but also ensures your chicken is tender and juicy from a simple brining process. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe guarantees a delightful culinary experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Crispy Fried Chicken Leg with Balsamic-Dijon Glaze is the epitome of comfort food, combining the savory crunch of fried chicken with a tangy, sweet glaze. The buttermilk brine infuses the chicken with moisture, resulting in perfectly tender meat. The balsamic-dijon glaze elevates this dish by adding layers of depth, with sweetness from honey and the rich acidity of balsamic vinegar. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Fried Chicken

Brine the Chicken: If time allows, brining your chicken overnight in buttermilk will produce the most tender results.
Temperature Control: Keep your oil at a steady temperature (350°F) for even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Slicing for Crispy Texture: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack rather than on paper towels to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Variations: Experiment with different seasonings in the flour mix for a tailored flavor profile.
Glaze Application: Apply the glaze while the chicken is still hot for better adherence and flavor infusion.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people and consists of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

For the Fried Chicken:

2-3 whole chicken legs (thigh with drumstick attached)
1 cup buttermilk (or substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Balsamic-Dijon Glaze:

½ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp chopped rosemary or thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Brine the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Begin by soaking the chicken legs in buttermilk (or the milk-vinegar mixture) for 1-4 hours or overnight if possible. This brining process helps to tenderize the chicken and infuses it with moisture, ensuring a juicy final product.

Step 2: Dredge & Fry: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat the chicken legs thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken legs into the hot oil, frying them for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Fry until they are a deep golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, drain the chicken on a wire rack to maintain its crispiness.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic-Dijon Glaze: While the chicken is frying, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and chopped rosemary or thyme until melted and glossy.

Step 4: Glaze & Serve: When the chicken is done and still hot, drizzle the prepared balsamic-dijon glaze generously over the chicken legs. For an impressive presentation, serve the glazed chicken with your favorite sides — mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh summer salad are excellent choices!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken thighs or breasts, but the cooking time may vary based on the cut you choose.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-45 minutes until cooked through and golden brown for a healthier alternative.

What can I serve with this crispy fried chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or even a refreshing cucumber salad.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the balsamic-dijon glaze ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat before serving.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven to restore crispiness or microwave on low power.

Conclusion

Crispy Fried Chicken Leg with Balsamic-Dijon Glaze is a show-stopper that will win over your dining companions. The combination of a perfectly crunchy exterior with juicy meat complemented by a sweet-tangy glaze creates a delightful flavor explosion. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Get ready to indulge your taste buds and enjoy a satisfying meal!