Patitas de Pollo, or small fried chicken drumsticks, are a popular Argentine appetizer or snack, often served at gatherings, barbecues, or as a street food treat. These crispy, flavorful drumsticks are typically marinated in a mixture of spices and then fried to golden perfection. They’re juicy on the inside and have a crunchy coating, making them a crowd-pleaser. They are usually served with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 small chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

For Marinade:

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken drumsticks in the marinade, coating them evenly. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight for better flavor).

2. Prepare the coating: Set up a coating station with three bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the drumsticks: Remove the marinated drumsticks from the fridge. Dredge each drumstick in the flour, dip it in the egg mixture, and coat it with seasoned breadcrumbs. Make sure each drumstick is well-coated.

4. Fry the drumsticks: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the drumsticks in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 12-15 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

5. Drain and serve: Remove the drumsticks from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve hot: Serve the Patitas de Pollo with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed hot and crispy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 4):

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbs: ~30g
• Fiber: ~2g

Patitas de Pollo are a protein-rich dish with a moderate amount of carbs from the breading. They are indulgent due to the frying, but the drumsticks provide essential nutrients and are a delicious, satisfying treat.