"Fried" Chicken

Who doesn't like fried chicken? Although no one likes the calories and fat associated with this delicious fast food. My recipe is easy, low in fat and economical.  If you buy the whole leg, back attached, it is easy to remove the skin from the thigh and then cut the pieces at the joint.  It can save you up to half of the cost of buying the pieces seperately and skinned. I then remove the hip joint and use it to make chicken stock or use it in my tomato sauce. One of the key successes in the kitchen is to have sharp knives! I sharpen mine once a week and I have many sizes so I can use different knives for different applications. 

1 1/2cups seasoned bread crumbs

4-5 tbsp grated Parmesan  cheese

3 tbsp parsley, chopped

1 egg, whisked

grape seed or canola oil for "frying"

10 chicken legs, skinned and separated into thigh and leg pieces

In a large bowl whisk egg. Put all of the legs/thighs in a bowl, using hands coat all pieces. *This allows you to use only 1 egg.*

Place crumbs, cheese and parsley into a plastic bag.* Because the cheese is salty no other salt is needed. Excessive usage of salt contributes to abdominal bloating and weight gain.* Add 2-3 pieces of chicken and shake to coat.

Place on a lightly greased parchment paper lined baking sheet. 

Preheat oven to 375F

Bake for 45min or until golden, turning halfway through the time to crisp both sides.  To check for doneness, when no pink juices flow when cut.

*Usually all my cooking utilises EVOO (extra virgin olive oil), however it smokes at high temperatures, so I do not use it in the oven.*

Enjoy with love!