Crispy Fried Chicken Drumstick Recipe: Southern Comfort!

Ingredients

• 4 cups (950 ml) cold water
• 1/4 cup (55g) kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, cracked
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 6-8 chicken drumsticks, skin on (approximately 2-2.5 lbs / 900g-1.1kg)
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons (24g) baking powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups (950 ml) vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)