Craving crispy, juicy fried chicken but looking for a healthier alternative? This Baked Fried Chicken recipe delivers all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken without the deep-frying. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt thinned with water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
the Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating Baked Fried Chicken recipe
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornmeal (if using), baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack.
Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or brush with oil to ensure a crispy crust.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the coating is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw.
Tips for Baked Fried Chicken recipe
Marinate Well: Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.
Use a Rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate for even crispiness.
Cornmeal Addition: Adding cornmeal to the coating gives extra crunch.
Spray with Oil: A light spray of oil or cooking spray ensures a fried-like texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with creamy coleslaw or potato salad.
Add a side of cornbread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximately):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 2g