Oh, let me tell you, there’s something so comforting about a plate of oven fried chicken! It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. This recipe is my go-to whenever I’m craving that crispy, golden-brown goodness without all the guilt of traditional frying. I love how the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s baked rather than fried, so you can enjoy it knowing it’s a healthier option. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up! Whether you’re feeding the family or just treating yourself, this oven fried chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for Oven Fried Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking)
- 1 cup fine breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (to drizzle on top)
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste! If you prefer a little heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. And for a gluten-free option, just swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. It’s all about making this dish work for you!
How to Prepare Oven Fried Chicken
Now, let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious oven fried chicken step-by-step! Trust me, it’s simpler than you might think, and I’ll guide you through each part so you can achieve that crispy, mouth-watering result!
Preparing the Chicken
The first step is soaking the chicken in buttermilk, and oh boy, don’t skip this part! Just grab a bowl and add 1 cup of buttermilk, then toss in your chicken thighs and drumsticks. Make sure each piece is fully submerged—this is what really helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, but if you can manage to let it sit for a couple of hours (or even overnight), that’s even better! The longer it soaks, the more flavorful and juicy it will be.
Coating the Chicken
Once your chicken has soaked, it’s time to coat it! In a separate bowl, mix together your breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend is key to giving your chicken that delicious flavor! Now, take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. I like to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well. This is where you get that beautiful crust, so take your time! Once coated, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Baking the Chicken
Now we’re ready to bake! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy texture we all love. Before you pop the chicken in, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top of each piece. This little trick gives the coating that golden-brown color and adds a bit of richness. Bake your chicken for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). I can’t stress enough how handy a meat thermometer can be here—it takes the guesswork out of ensuring it’s fully cooked. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delectable!
Tips for Success with Oven Fried Chicken
Now that you’re all set to make your oven fried chicken, here are some trusty tips to help you achieve the best results! First off, don’t skip the meat thermometer—it’s your best friend for ensuring the chicken is cooked through without drying it out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe and sound.
For that extra crispy coating, try to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Give each piece some space so the heat can circulate around them. If you find that your coating isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can place the chicken under the broiler for the last couple of minutes—just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Lastly, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking is key. This step allows the juices to settle, making sure every bite is juicy and flavorful. I promise, following these tips will elevate your oven fried chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Variations to Try
One of the best things about oven fried chicken is how adaptable it is! You can really get creative in the kitchen with this recipe. For starters, if you prefer a different cut of chicken, feel free to swap out the thighs and drumsticks for chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts will cook a bit faster, so check them around the 25-30 minute mark.
If you’re a spice lover, why not experiment with different seasonings? Try adding some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to your breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist. Or, if you like a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the buttermilk soak. You could even go a little exotic with some curry powder or chili powder for a fun flavor profile!
Feeling adventurous? Instead of breadcrumbs, try crushed cornflakes or even crushed potato chips for a unique crunch. They give a delightful texture and can be a fun way to change things up. You could also consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumb mix for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy coating.
The sky’s the limit! Don’t be afraid to play around with different combinations and see what works best for you. Cooking is all about making it your own, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorite variation of this delicious oven fried chicken!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying oven fried chicken, it’s nice to be mindful of what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (which is about one piece of chicken):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Knowing this information can help you make informed choices while still enjoying a comforting favorite!
FAQ About Oven Fried Chicken
As you embark on your oven fried chicken journey, you might have a few questions pop up. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some common inquiries!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover oven fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to keep that crispy coating as much as possible!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. It’s that easy! You can enjoy this dish without the gluten worries.
How can I adjust the recipe for smaller servings?
If you’re cooking for one or two, you can cut the recipe in half. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time since smaller pieces may cook a bit faster. Aim for that 165°F internal temperature for safety!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before soaking it in buttermilk. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No buttermilk? No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and voilà! Your homemade buttermilk is ready to go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Enjoy the crispy, comforting taste of fried chicken without the excess oil, making it a guilt-free choice!
- Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Juicy: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk ensures each piece is packed with flavor and incredibly tender.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the spices or chicken cuts to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love, making it great for family dinners.
- Leftovers Galore: The oven fried chicken keeps well, so you can enjoy it as leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delicious oven fried chicken, there are so many delightful options to consider! A fresh garden salad is always a fantastic choice—think crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and perhaps a tangy vinaigrette to brighten up the plate. You could also whip up some creamy coleslaw for that classic pairing, adding a crunchy and refreshing touch that complements the chicken perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider serving it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. Both options will soak up any leftover juices and make for a comforting meal. And let’s not forget about some buttery corn on the cob or steamed green beans—they’re simple, yet they add a lovely burst of color and nutrition to your plate!
Whatever you choose, I promise your oven fried chicken will shine as the star of the meal!
Print
Oven Fried Chicken: 5 Steps to Comforting Deliciousness
- Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Oven fried chicken is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, offering a crispy texture and delicious flavor without the excess oil.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute chicken thighs and drumsticks with chicken breasts.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: oven fried chicken, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken, comfort food
