This oven-fried chicken recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken while still delivering a crispy, flavorful coating. Using a combination of spices and a baking technique, you can achieve a satisfying crunch without the excess oil.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Creating the Perfect Oven-Fried Chicken
Oven-fried chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of fried chicken with a healthier baking method. The result is a golden-brown exterior that is both crispy and juicy on the inside.
To achieve this, marinating the chicken in buttermilk is essential. This step not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Choosing the right spices and coating is equally important. A mix of seasoned breadcrumbs and flour creates a satisfying crunch that rivals traditional frying methods.
Ingredients for Success
The key to a successful oven-fried chicken lies in the ingredients. Start with skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks for maximum flavor and moisture.
Buttermilk serves as the base for marinating, while a combination of all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs provides the crispy coating.
Don’t forget the spices! Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper add depth and a touch of heat, making each bite irresistible.
Preparation Steps
Preparation is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. Begin by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for enhanced flavor.
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. A wire rack placed on top allows for even cooking and crispiness.
Next, mix the flour and breadcrumb coating with the spices in a shallow dish, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Baking to Perfection
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to coat and bake. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture.
Place the coated chicken on the wire rack and lightly spray or drizzle with cooking oil. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish.
Bake the chicken for 35-45 minutes, keeping an eye on it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each piece remains moist and flavorful.
For a complete meal, pair the chicken with a side of coleslaw and your favorite dipping sauce. The crunch of the coleslaw complements the crispy chicken perfectly, creating a satisfying dining experience.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor, making your dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Nutritional Information
This oven-fried chicken recipe serves four and offers a balanced meal option. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 28 grams of protein and 18 grams of fat.
It’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist.
With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, this oven-fried chicken is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Easy Oven-Fried Chicken Recipe
This oven-fried chicken features juicy pieces of chicken coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks, skin-on
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere, and place on the wire rack.
- Bake: Lightly spray or drizzle the coated chicken with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g