Baked Fried Chicken Recipe
Baked fried chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat, without the hassle and mess of deep-frying. By using the oven, this method significantly reduces the amount of oil needed while still achieving that signature crunch. It’s a healthier take on classic fried chicken, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
In this recipe, the chicken is coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture that mimics the crispy exterior of deep-fried chicken, but without all the calories. The magic lies in the high heat of the oven, which ensures that the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely while the chicken remains moist and tender on the inside. To achieve the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness, the chicken is baked on a rack to allow air circulation, preventing any sogginess from forming on the underside. The result? Fried chicken that’s just as satisfying, without the need for deep frying.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Why You Will Love This Baked Fried Chicken
1. Crispy Texture: Thanks to the breadcrumb coating and high heat, the chicken comes out with a beautifully crispy exterior, just like traditional fried chicken.
2. Healthier Option: By baking instead of frying, this recipe reduces the oil content and calories, making it a lighter choice without sacrificing flavor.
3. Easy Cleanup: Baking eliminates the mess and oil splatters of frying, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
4. Juicy Inside: The chicken stays tender and juicy because it’s baked to perfection, retaining moisture without drying out.
5. Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings and coating to suit your taste preferences, making this recipe adaptable to any flavor profile.
Ingredients Notes
– Chicken Pieces: You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts. Bone-in pieces tend to retain moisture better, making them a great choice for this recipe.
– Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a lighter, crispier texture.
– Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with the seasoning mix! Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme all work wonderfully in this recipe.
– Buttermilk: If you want an extra tender result, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before baking. The acidity in the buttermilk helps break down the protein fibers, making the chicken even juicier.
How to Make Baked Fried Chicken
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the breading: In a shallow bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk an egg with a little water or milk.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat for all pieces of chicken.
4. Arrange the chicken on a rack: Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and arrange the coated chicken pieces on the rack. This will allow air to circulate around the chicken, helping it crisp up evenly.
5. Bake: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options
Leftover baked fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the crispiness, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, placing it on a rack or baking sheet. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until fully heated through and crispy.
Variations and Substitutions
– Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make the recipe entirely gluten-free.
– Spicy Fried Chicken: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the breading mix for a spicy kick.
– Herb Flavored: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the breadcrumb mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
– Different Coatings: Try substituting breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes, potato chips, or even grated Parmesan cheese for a different texture and flavor profile.
Conclusion
Baked fried chicken offers all the flavors and textures of the classic fried version with none of the mess or excessive calories. It’s an easy, healthier alternative that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy the crispy, crunchy goodness of fried chicken without the fryer!