Okay, friends, gather ’round. Let’s talk fried chicken. I know the words “healthy” and “fried chicken” don’t exactly go hand-in-hand. What if I told you that you could get that same incredible crispy, juicy, utterly addictive? What is the taste of fried chicken without the deep frying? Enter: My absolute favorite movie and why.Oven-Fried. It’s like a hug in an crispy, golden-brown package, and honestly? I think it rivals the traditional method. Think of it as the weeknight-friendly, waistline-conscious cousin of the classic Southern comfort. How easy is it to eat and how delicious it is?

What is oven-fried chicken?

What is oven-fried chicken? What are some of the best ways to mimic the flavors of fried chicken? Instead of submerging the chicken in hot oil, you bake it in the oven. What is the best of both worlds? You get the crispy coating, the juicy interior, and that irresistible savory flavor we all crave. Is it possible to have less fat and mess? What’s fried chicken without the guilt and the constant babysitting of a toddler? What is a bubbling pot of oil? Is the clean up a breeze?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the best flavor combinations? We’re talking perfectly seasoned, incredibly crispy skin that practically melts in your mouth. What I love about this recipe is that it’s shockingly easy. I’m not kidding. Even a complete beginner can nail this. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. What are some of the best chicken pieces you can buy at the grocery store? Is there anything I should have on hand?

Is there a limit to versatility? Can you serve it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal? Is it good to serve it with a salad? My kids love it in sandwiches with a little bit of mayo and lettuce. What are some good Side Dishes to serve with corn on the cob? What is the best way to eat fried chicken? Is it easier to clean up than frying chicken? If you love air fried chicken, then you will love oven frying chicken!

How do you cook oven-fry chicken?

Quick Overview

How do you make oven-fried chicken? What are some good ways to prepare chicken pieces? How do I cook chicken in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through? What is the secret of a crispy, fried texture? What is the best way to make a difference?

Ingredients

For the Chicken: How do you cook

2-3 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts), skin on.
1 teaspoon salt is a teaspoon.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper. 1/4 teaspoon salt.

For the Breading:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour.
1/4 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)!
2 tablespoons of paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt.
1 tablespoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons
1 teaspoon dried thyme per 1 cup.
1 teaspoon dried oregano per teaspoon.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
What is 1 teaspoon salt?
1/2 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.

For the Wet Mixture:

1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cups milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
1 large egg, beaten.
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor) – 1 teaspoon (added if desired)

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. What are some of the best ways to clean a car?

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

How do you pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels? What is the best way to cook chicken? Season with salt and pepper. I always do this; it’s the perfect way to start.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and thyme. Set aside. What are the ingredients for this recipe? Oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so that the seasoning is evenly distributed. Where does all the flavor come from?

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or milk mixture), egg, and hot sauce (if using). How does buttermilk help tenderize chicken?

Step 5: Bread the Chicken

What is the fun part? How do you dip chicken into the wet mixture? What is the best way to dredge breading in the dry mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Spray generously with cooking spray. This is *the* key to getting that crispy, fried-like texture. Don’t skimp on spray!

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Halfway through baking, flip the chicken pieces and spray again with cooking spray for even cooking.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

What is the best way to prepare chicken for serving? This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful piece of chicken.

What should I serve it with?

For a Classic Dinner:Mashed potatoes and gravy are always a winner. Add a side of Green Beans or corn on the cob for an easy meal.

What is a Southern feast? Coleslaw, biscuits, and mac and cheese are the perfect accompaniments. Don’t forget the sweet tea!

For a Lighter Meal: Slice the Oven-Fried Chicken and toss it in a salad with your favorite greens, veggies, and dressing. It’s also great in wraps or sandwiches.

My family loves this with a simple side of roasted vegetables. It’s a quick and easy way to add some nutrients to the meal. Sometimes, I’ll even make a batch of Sweet Potato fries to go with it. The possibilities are endless!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Oven-Fried Chicken

Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: The cornstarch in the breading mixture is what gives the chicken that extra crispy texture. It’s a game-changer!

Dry Chicken is Key: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before breading is essential for ensuring the breading adheres properly.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the chicken instead of allowing it to crisp up. If necessary, bake in batches.

Generously Spray with Cooking Spray: This is the most important tip! The cooking spray is what creates that fried-like texture. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount.

Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the chicken pieces halfway through baking ensures even browning on all sides.

I made the mistake the first time of not flipping the chicken and it was unevenly cooked! Learned my lesson fast.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing: Leftover Oven-Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help maintain the crispy texture.

Freezing: You can also freeze Oven-Fried Chicken for longer storage. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Since boneless, skinless chicken breasts are leaner, they will cook faster. Keep a close eye on them and check for doneness after about 25-30 minutes. Also, be aware that they might not be as juicy as chicken with the bone-in and skin-on.

Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your liking. Some other great options include smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, or your favorite spice blend.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the baking sheet?

Make sure to grease the baking sheet well with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?

Yes, you can! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: my go-to recipe for the crispiest, easiest Oven-Fried Chicken. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights, and honestly? It just makes me happy. If you’re looking for a healthier, less messy alternative to traditional fried chicken, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed. If you enjoyed this and want to try another great recipe, try my oven Baked Chicken parmesan! And if you try it out, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!

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