Are you craving the comforting crunch of fried chicken without the hassle of deep frying? This Classic Oven-Baked Fried Chicken recipe delivers all the crispy goodness with a fraction of the effort. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it's sure to become a favorite.
The star of this recipe is obviously the chicken. I like using a mix of drumsticks and thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful. All-purpose flour forms the base of our coating, while salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper add layers of savory goodness. A hint of dried thyme brings a subtle earthiness. The secret ingredient here is baking powder — it helps the coating puff up and get that crispy texture we love. Buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with rich flavor. Finally, a drizzle of melted butter before baking ensures a beautifully golden crust.
This oven-baked fried chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. For a bit of Southern flair, serve it with cornbread and honey butter. A squeeze of lemon over the chicken just before serving can add a refreshing zing.
First, crank up your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it's nice and hot when the chicken goes in. While the oven preheats, grab a large bowl and mix together the flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, thyme, and baking powder. This is your magic coating mix.
Next, marinate the chicken. Pour the buttermilk over the pieces in another bowl, making sure they're fully submerged. Let them soak up the goodness for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken.
After marinating, it's time for the coating. Take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated, pressing the flour on if needed.
Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Now, here's the fun part — drizzle the melted butter over the chicken. This little trick helps achieve that crispy, golden finish.
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. At the halfway mark, flip the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Once they're beautifully golden brown and cooked through, pull them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
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