This Baked Fried Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy the deliciously crispy and juicy flavors of fried chicken without the extra oil and mess. Oven-baked to golden perfection, this chicken is coated in a seasoned, crispy breading that rivals the deep-fried version. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into this easy, healthier recipe that delivers all the flavor of fried chicken with much less effort!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Baked Fried Chicken
2. Instructions for Baked Fried Chicken
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Baked Fried Chicken

• 4-6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for marinating)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions for Baked Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces and make sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to allow the chicken to cook evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

• In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

• Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange and Bake

• Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Brush each piece with olive oil or melted butter to help achieve a crispy crust.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The coating should be golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.

Tips & Notes

• Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. For the best results, marinate overnight.
• Wire Rack Method: Baking the chicken on a wire rack helps air circulate around the chicken, resulting in a crispier crust.
• Don’t Skip the Oil: Brushing the chicken with olive oil or melted butter before baking helps create a golden, crispy crust.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Baked Fried Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Herb Baked Chicken: Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the flour mixture for a herby twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the baking time accordingly—boneless pieces will cook faster, usually in 25-30 minutes.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture.

3. Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

This Baked Fried Chicken offers all the flavors and crispiness of traditional fried chicken without the extra calories and mess from deep frying. It’s an easy, healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this baked version of fried chicken will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy every crispy, juicy bite!

Happy cooking, and enjoy this healthier take on a classic comfort food!