Let me tell you, there’s just something magical about crispy baked fried chicken that gets me every time! It’s juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and honestly, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the looks on their faces when they took that first bite were absolutely priceless! I had been experimenting with a healthier version of fried chicken, and when I pulled this out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, making everyone rush to the table. Trust me, you won’t believe it’s baked! This recipe is my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, and I can’t wait for you to try it out for yourself!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up the best crispy baked fried chicken. You’ll love how straightforward it is! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
These ingredients combine to create that irresistible crispy coating and juicy meat we all crave. Plus, the spices add a delightful flavor that really takes it over the top! Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results, and don’t skimp on the buttermilk—it’s the secret to that tender, flavorful chicken.
How to Prepare Baked Fried Chicken
Let’s dive into making this crispy baked fried chicken! The steps are straightforward, and I promise the deliciousness is worth every minute. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a golden-brown masterpiece right out of your oven!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy texture we all crave. So, don’t skip this step! While the oven heats, you can start prepping the marinade.
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon each of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste! This is where the magic happens—the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor. Submerge your chicken pieces in this mixture, making sure they’re well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer if you have the time) to really soak up those flavors.
Coat the Chicken
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to coat each piece in breadcrumbs. I like to use a separate bowl for the breadcrumbs to make things easier. Take each chicken piece and press it firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. This coating is what gives your chicken that incredible crunch, so don’t be shy—really get those breadcrumbs on there!
Bake the Chicken
Now it’s time to bake! Place your coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and give them a light spray of cooking spray for that extra crispiness. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as we want that perfect golden crust!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for each piece of this delicious crispy baked fried chicken. Each serving contains about 350 calories, 15g of fat, and 25g of protein, making it a satisfying choice for any meal. It also has 30g of carbohydrates, which gives you that energy boost you might need. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Crispy baked fried chicken that’s healthier than traditional frying.
- Deliciously flavorful thanks to the buttermilk marinade and spices.
- Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers are just as tasty!
Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To achieve the ultimate crispy baked fried chicken, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t rush the marinating process; allowing the chicken to soak in that buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours if you can) makes a world of difference in flavor and tenderness. Also, when coating your chicken, make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the meat firmly. This ensures they stick well and create that wonderful crunch.
Another important tip is to use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet if you have one. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, making it even crispier! And don’t forget to keep an eye on the baking time—everyone’s oven is a bit different, so check for that gorgeous golden color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this crispy baked fried chicken recipe is how easily it can be customized! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the spices for a different flavor profile. For a zesty kick, add some cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. If you’re a fan of herbs, mix in dried thyme or oregano to the breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist.
Feeling like a little Asian flair? Use sesame oil in the marinade and coat the chicken with panko breadcrumbs, giving it a delightful crunch! And don’t forget about sides! Pair your chicken with a fresh coleslaw or some roasted veggies for a complete meal. This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious crispy baked fried chicken fresh, it’s essential to store it properly. Once the chicken has cooled down, place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about 3-4 days, but trust me, they might not last that long—they’re just too tasty!
When it comes time to reheat, you’ll want to retain that wonderful crunch. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You could also use an air fryer if you have one—just toss them in at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes for a quick, crispy fix. Avoid the microwave if you can; it tends to make the coating soggy. Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first time around!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs and drumsticks? Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of thighs and drumsticks, chicken breasts can work just fine. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as they may cook a bit quicker.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’re good to go!
Can I freeze the baked fried chicken? Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above for that crispy texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier? If you’re a heat lover, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade! You can also sprinkle some chili powder in the breadcrumbs for an extra kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! As long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this baked fried chicken is a delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Print
Baked Fried Chicken: 7 Irresistibly Crispy Secrets
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy baked fried chicken that is juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Submerge chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, place breadcrumbs. Coat each piece of chicken in breadcrumbs.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: baked fried chicken, crispy chicken, healthy fried chicken
