Ginger Fried Chicken Drumsticks

This ginger fried chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and has just the right hint of sweetness and warmth from the ginger. Serve it up with coleslaw, rice, or your favorite sides for a comforting, flavorful meal.

That's exactly what's going on here. This isn't your average fried drumstick - this is ginger-infused, honey-kissed, ultra-crispy fried chicken that feels both familiar and a little bit special.

I first made this on a whim after realizing I had drumsticks to use up and a bottle of ginger juice hanging out in the fridge. One quick marinade, a crispy breadcrumb coating, and a little pan frying later… magic. The ginger adds a warm, zingy note that balances the rich fried crust, and the honey brings just the tiniest bit of sweetness to round it all out.

Whether you're frying up a weeknight dinner or planning something fun for a weekend, these drumsticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In fact, it's one of my most popular family-friendly chicken recipes.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

• Chicken drumsticks - The perfect choice for eating with your hands!
• Ginger juice - Adds a ton of flavor to this dish - do not skip it.
• Honey - Just a touch to balance the ginger. You can also substitute agave or maple syrup here.
• Corn flour - Helps give a light, crisp coating. Cornstarch or fine cornmeal are good substitutions if needed.
• Egg yolks - Helps the coating stick to the chicken. Just the yolks are needed!
• Breadcrumbs - Panko is preferred for extra crunch.
• Canola oil - Neutral flavored and great for frying.

You will also need a large, deep sided frying pan for deep frying the drumsticks. Or alternatively, you can use a deep fryer.

How to Make It

1. Marinate:
   Combine ginger juice and honey in a bowl or large zip-top bag. Add drumsticks and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours.
2. Set up your breading station:
   Fill three bowls - one with corn flour, one with beaten egg yolks, and one with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat the oil:
   Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer and heat to 365°F. Use a thermometer - don't guess.
4. Bread the chicken:
   Remove drumsticks from the marinade. Coat each one in corn flour, dip into egg yolk, then press into breadcrumbs until fully coated.
5. Fry:
   Fry two drumsticks at a time for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F). Let the oil come back to temp between batches.
6. Drain and serve:
   Let the fried chicken rest on paper towels to drain. Cool slightly, then serve hot and crispy.

Helpful Tips & Variations

For the best crispy texture, fry just a few drumsticks at a time and avoid crowding the pan. Let the oil return to 365°F between batches for even browning.

Use a food thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internally. This guarantees it's cooked through without overfrying the crust.

Want a spicier version? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumbs for a little extra heat.

Not a fan of drumsticks? Try boneless chicken thighs or even chicken tenders for quicker cooking and easier eating.

To keep things gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check your corn flour or cornstarch for hidden gluten.

Serving Suggestions

Try pairing this fried chicken up with our Copycat Kentucky Fried Chicken Coleslaw, my favorite Garlic Mashed Potatoes, or some irresistible Cornbread Muffins.

And for a sweet treat? Follow it up with this Banana Cream Pie or Banana Pudding Cupcakes.

More Tasty Recipes

If you love this Ginger Fried Chicken, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:

• Easy Chicken Fried Rice
• Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
• Honey Sesame Chicken Breast
• Ginger Lime Chicken

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