Breaded and Fried Stuffed Chicken Drumsticks

Breaded and Fried Stuffed Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients:

**For the Chicken:**
– 8 chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 cups breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying

**For the Filling:**
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
– Carefully remove the skin from each drumstick, leaving it attached at the bottom, and push the meat up to expose the bone. This will create a cavity for the filling.
– Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper.

2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
– Stuff each drumstick with the filling mixture, pressing it firmly into the cavity. Pull the skin back over the filling to cover it as much as possible.

3. **Bread the Chicken:**
– Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
– Dredge each stuffed drumstick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
– Dip the floured drumstick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
– Roll the drumstick in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is evenly coated. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere.

4. **Fry the Chicken:**
– Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
– Carefully place the breaded drumsticks in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
– Fry the drumsticks for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. **Drain and Serve:**
– Remove the fried drumsticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
– Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your breaded and fried stuffed chicken drumsticks! They make a delicious and impressive main dish or appetizer.