Forget greasy deep-fried chicken! This recipe delivers all the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken, but baked to perfection in your oven. It's easier than you think, healthier than traditional frying, and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying dish.
What Makes This Oven-Baked Fried Chicken Recipe Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. We're using readily available ingredients and a straightforward technique that minimizes prep time and cleanup. No complicated brines or double-dipping required!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, for leaner option)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Buttermilk Soak (Optional but Recommended): Place chicken thighs in a separate bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for extra flavor and tenderness). This step significantly improves the chicken's moisture and texture.
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Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
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Bake to Perfection: Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray.
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Oven Time: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through for even browning.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken pieces for proper airflow and even browning. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Higher heat for crispier skin: For extra crispy skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Broil (Use with Caution): For an extra-crispy finish, broil the chicken for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the baking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken will generally take longer to cook, possibly 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I use different spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs. Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even a simple blend of salt and pepper would work wonderfully.
How do I store leftover chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven, microwave, or skillet.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken by coating it in the flour mixture and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. Just ensure to bring it to room temperature before baking. Soaking in buttermilk can also be done ahead of time.
Is this recipe healthy?
This recipe is healthier than deep-fried chicken as it uses significantly less oil. Baking the chicken also helps reduce the overall fat content. However, remember that the nutritional value will depend on the specific ingredients you use.
Enjoy your delicious and easy oven-baked fried chicken! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out.
