If you’ve ever dreamed of that perfect crispy fried chicken but wanted a healthier, less messy alternative, this Baked Fried Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. It combines the irresistible crunch and bold flavors of classic fried chicken with the ease and lightness of baking. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have golden, juicy chicken that delivers on texture and taste, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this Baked Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with deep frying!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Fried Chicken Recipe calls for pantry staples and ingredients that bring a harmony of flavor, crunch, and moisture. Each element plays a part, whether it’s the aromatic spices that infuse amazing taste or the buttermilk that tenderizes and helps the coating stick perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These provide juicy meat and beautifully crisp skin, but drumsticks or breasts work well too for variety.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the crispy coating, it crisps wonderfully in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and gorgeous color to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory depth to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that brightens the coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Gives a gentle kick of heat if you want a little spice.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a balanced bite to the crust.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Perfect for tenderizing the chicken while also helping the coating stick; regular milk with a splash of vinegar works too.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil: Drizzled over the chicken before baking to boost crispiness and add richness.
- Cooking spray (optional): For an extra crispy finish, lightly spray the coated chicken.
How to Make Baked Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for crisping up the coating while cooking the chicken through perfectly. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or better yet, place a wire rack on top to let air circulate all around the chicken, creating even crispiness on every side.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
Next, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish or large bowl. This spice blend is what makes this Baked Fried Chicken Recipe truly special—each bite is packed with layers of flavor!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, making sure it’s fully coated. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and also acts as glue for the flour mix. Then dredge the chicken in the flour-spice mixture, pressing gently to get a thick, even crust. This double step is the secret to that perfect baked “fried” finish.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place your coated chicken pieces on the prepared tray or rack. Drizzle them with melted butter or olive oil to encourage browning and add richness. If you want that extra crunch reminiscent of true fried chicken, a light spray of cooking spray will do wonders. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the coating is golden, crisp, and the chicken’s internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). Patience here pays off with a juicy, flavorful result.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute so every bite stays tender and moist. Now you’re ready to enjoy this marvelous Baked Fried Chicken Recipe that delivers flavor and crisp without the oil mess.
How to Serve Baked Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your plated chicken to a fresh and inviting meal. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green and freshness. Lemon wedges on the side add a zesty brightness that cuts through the rich crust beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw make fantastic companions, balancing the crispy chicken with soft and tangy textures. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully, keeping the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve your Baked Fried Chicken Recipe in a rustic basket lined with checked paper for that charming picnic vibe. Or slice the chicken and tuck it inside fresh sandwich rolls with pickles and mayo for a crowd-pleasing chicken sandwich everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked fried chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The coating may soften slightly, but the flavors remain just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some chicken for later, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen baked fried chicken keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive that crispy exterior when reheating, warm the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the coating crispy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless or bone-in chicken breasts work well. Just keep an eye on cooking time since breasts cook faster and can dry out if overbaked.
Is buttermilk necessary?
Buttermilk is ideal because it tenderizes and helps the coating stick, but you can substitute regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar for a similar effect.
How can I make the coating extra crispy?
Using a wire rack to bake helps airflow crisp all sides, and drizzling melted butter or a light cooking spray on top enhances that golden crunch.
Can I add more spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, chili powder, or your favorite herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your baked fried chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Fried Chicken Recipe gives you all the crave-worthy crisp and flavor of traditional fried chicken without the fuss and extra oil, making it a winner for any meal. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your own and discover how easy and delicious healthy fried chicken can be. Gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and enjoy every juicy, crunchy bite!
Print
Baked Fried Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Fried Chicken recipe offers the crispy, flavorful satisfaction of classic fried chicken without the hassle of deep frying. Coated in a seasoned flour mixture and baked to golden perfection, the chicken is juicy on the inside with a crunchy, flavorful crust. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe uses simple ingredients and an oven to achieve a healthier yet delicious version of fried chicken.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks or breasts)
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
- Cooking spray (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack to promote crispiness.
- Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish or large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix these seasonings well to create an even coating mixture.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well and covers the entire piece.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Drizzle the melted butter or olive oil over each piece to help achieve a golden and crispy crust. If desired, lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Bake until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Confirm doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Allow the baked fried chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Using a wire rack for baking allows heat to circulate around the chicken, making it crispier.
- Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness or omit if preferred mild.
- Melted butter or olive oil helps to create a more golden and crispy crust without deep frying.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure it is safely cooked.
- Leftover baked fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
