Oven Fried Chicken

Oven Fried Chicken offers all the crispy, flavorful goodness of traditional fried chicken with a healthier twist. By baking instead of deep-frying, you can enjoy the same mouthwatering results without the excess oil. This recipe will guide you to create crispy, oven-fried chicken that's sure to be a hit at any meal.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (such as thighs and drumsticks)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

For the Coating:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. This setup allows for even cooking and crispiness.

2. Prepare the Buttermilk Soak:

In a bowl, pour the buttermilk. Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to soak for at least 20-30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

                                 

3. Prepare the Coating Mixture:

In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, dried rosemary (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the coating mixture.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.

• Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.

• Next, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk.

• Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.

5. Arrange on the Wire Rack:

Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack, skin side up, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching.

6. Bake:

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest and Serve:

• Remove the oven-fried chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juiciness.

• Serve your Oven Fried Chicken hot, and enjoy the delightful crunch and savory flavors!

• Oven Fried Chicken offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken without compromising on taste and texture. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for family dinners, picnics, or any occasion where you crave that satisfying, crispy goodness.

Conclusion:

Oven Fried Chicken offers the best of both worlds—a golden, crispy exterior reminiscent of traditional fried chicken and the health-conscious satisfaction of being baked rather than fried. With its tender, juicy interior and a flavorful, crunchy coating, this dish is a winner in every way.

By using a combination of buttermilk and a well-seasoned breadcrumb mixture, you can achieve that perfect balance of texture and taste. Oven frying not only reduces the calorie content but also minimizes the mess associated with deep frying, making it a practical and delicious choice for any occasion.

Whether served with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauces, Oven Fried Chicken is sure to be a family-favorite, providing a delightful crunch with every bite.

                                                           

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for Oven Fried Chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as boneless cuts typically cook faster than bone-in, skin-on chicken.

2. What can I use instead of buttermilk for soaking the chicken?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes before using it as a buttermilk replacement.

3. Can I make Oven Fried Chicken in advance?
While Oven Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness.

4. What's the secret to achieving extra crispy Oven Fried Chicken?
To make your chicken even crispier, you can double-dip it by repeating the flour-buttermilk-breadcrumb coating process. Additionally, ensure the chicken pieces are spaced apart on the wire rack during baking to allow for proper air circulation.

5. Can I freeze leftover Oven Fried Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Oven Fried Chicken. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.