Baked Fried Chicken

Baked Fried Chicken

Introduction

Baked Fried Chicken is a tasty and healthier version of classic fried chicken. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it brings the comfort of fried chicken without all the extra grease. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and you can prepare it ahead of time. Your family will love it, and you’ll enjoy making it!

How to Make Baked Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (or boneless chicken breasts or thighs)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, cover, and let it sit in the fridge for 1-2 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you like a bit of heat), salt, and black pepper.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with a wire rack and grease it lightly.
4. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any extra buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture and place them on the rack.
5. Bake: Lightly spray or drizzle the tops of the chicken with oil. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Broil for 2-3 minutes for that extra crispy touch.
6. Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Baked Fried Chicken

Baked Fried Chicken is best served warm. Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget some dipping sauces for added flavor!

How to Store Baked Fried Chicken

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat it to a safe temperature before eating.

Tips to Make Baked Fried Chicken

• For more flavor, add your favorite herbs to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least a couple of hours for the best taste.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is perfectly cooked.

Variation

Feel free to swap out the chicken parts with your favorite pieces like chicken wings or tenderloins. You can also make a spicy version by adding more cayenne or using spicy hot sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use skinless chicken?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but the skin adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.

2. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can mix regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a quick buttermilk substitute.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.