How Long to Boil Chicken Legs before Frying

Are you curious about how long to boil chicken legs before frying them? Well, no need to worry, because there’s a simple answer.

Boiling your chicken legs is an important step before pan-frying and can be the difference between dry and juicy results. With just a few minutes of preparation time, followed by some careful boiling and frying techniques, you can make flavorful, succulent fried chicken that will bring everyone around the table begging for more! 

Read on for our foolproof guide on how long to boil chicken legs before frying them.

Are Chicken Legs Healthy?

In addition to being a tasty dish, boiled chicken legs can be a nutritious part of your meal. Chicken is packed with protein and B vitamins which are important for good health. When cooked properly, the boiling process locks in moisture, making chicken legs super juicy and full of flavor. It’s also an economical way to feed a crowd!

Keep on reading for how long to boil chicken legs before frying.

Is It Necessary For Boiling Chicken Legs Before Frying?

The boiling process is key to ensuring that your chicken legs are cooked all the way through before you fry them, even they are thighs, drumsticks or quarters.

By boiling the chicken first, you can be sure that the meat is cooked and tender before it hits the hot oil. This also allows for a more even cook, so you don’t have to worry about any undercooked or dry spots.

And later we will show you some tips about how long to boil chicken legs before frying

Perfect Temperature For How Long To Boil Chicken Legs Before Frying

For how long to boil chicken legs before frying, the perfect temperature is between 180 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Once the water reaches that temperature, let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This will ensure all of your chicken pieces are cooked through, but not overcooked or chewy.

Once you’ve boiled your chicken legs for the required time, remove them from the heat and drain any excess liquid. Then, either season them with your favorite spices or just toss them in some oil and get ready to fry!

How Long To Boil Chicken Legs Before Frying

The exact time for how long to boil chicken legs before frying is based on sizes, types of chicken legs you have, and utensils you used. Read carefully the information below to know more

Different types of chicken

1. Frozen: Frozen chicken legs should be boiled for at least 20 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
2. Fresh: Fresh chicken legs should be boiled for 15-18 minutes
3. Boneless: Boneless chicken legs should be boiled for 8-10 minutes
4. Bone-in: Boiling bone-in chicken legs takes the longest, usually around 25 minutes or longer, depending on how large they are.
5. Chicken legs quarter: Chicken leg quarters should be boiled for 12-15 minutes
6. Frozen chicken legs quarter: Frozen chicken legs quarters should be boiled for 18-20 minutes.

Different types of utensils

1. Regular pot: Boiling chicken legs in a regular pot will take 10-12 minutes.
2. Pressure Cooker: Boiling chicken legs in a pressure cooker takes 5-7 minutes.
3. Slow Cooker: Boiling chicken legs in a slow cooker takes around 6-8 hours on the low setting or 3-4 hours on the high setting.
4. Stockpot: Boiling chicken legs in a stockpot takes around 10-12 minutes.
5. Instant pot: Boiling chicken legs in an instant pot takes around 3-4 minutes.

How to know Your Chicken Legs Boiling Doneness?

The best way to check if your chicken legs are done boiling is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken leg and make sure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check the chicken by piercing it with a knife. If the juices run clear, and there’s no pink left in the center of the chicken, then you’re good to go!

Best Tips For Boiling Chicken Legs Before Frying

Here are a few tips to keep in mind for how long to boil chicken legs before frying:

1.  Boil the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for the best results.
2. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, or pierce the chicken with a knife and check that the juices run clear.
3. Make sure to let the chicken cool before frying. This will help ensure that it will stay crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
4. Drain any excess liquid from the chicken before frying otherwise, your oil will splatter and cause a mess.
5. Season your chicken with spices or herbs of your choice for added flavor.

FAQs for How Long To Boil Chicken Legs Before Frying

Can I boil frozen chicken legs before frying them?

Yes, you can boil frozen chicken legs before frying. However, keep in mind that these will take longer to cook – around 20 minutes or so – than fresh or boneless chicken legs.

>> See more: How To Defrost Chicken In Microwave?

Do I need to let the boiled chicken cool down before frying?

Yes, it is best to let the boiled chicken cool down slightly before frying, as this will help ensure that your fried chicken turns out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

 Is it better to boil chicken legs fast or slow?

It’s best to boil chicken legs slowly over low heat so that they cook evenly and retain their moisture. Boiling them too quickly or on high heat can cause the meat to become dry and tough.

What is the best equipment should i use to boil chicken legs?

The best equipment to use for boiling chicken legs is a large pot or deep skillet, a stockpot, an Instant Pot, or a pressure cooker. Each of these has its own benefits and should be chosen depending on how quickly you need to cook the chicken.

What happens if my chicken legs overcook?

If your chicken legs overcook, they will become dry and tough. To avoid this, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a food thermometer or pierce it with a knife and check that the juices run clear. You should also keep an eye on how long you’ve been boiling the chicken and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Does boiling make your chicken legs change its favor? 

Boiling chicken legs will not change their flavor, but it can help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat. Boiling also helps to tenderize the chicken before frying, which can result in a more flavorful and juicy dish.  So follow how long to boil chicken legs before frying guide for delicious results!

Conclusion

Knowing how long to boil chicken legs before frying will ensure that they cook evenly and remain juicy and tender.  The amount of time it takes to boil the chicken will depend on how large the pieces are, as well as what type of equipment you’re using.

For best results, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a food thermometer or pierce it with a knife and check that the juices run clear. You should also drain any excess liquid from the chicken before frying in order to avoid splattering oil. 

So what are you waiting for? Take your chicken legs and enjoy the deliciousness of how long to boil chicken legs before frying! Make your meal tastier with Dixies Home Cookin.