Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. This recipe gives you the crispy texture you crave while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish stands out with its simple preparation and incredible taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the crispy goodness of fried chicken without the extra oil, making it a guilt-free choice.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—from casual dinners to holiday feasts, this oven-fried chicken fits right in.
• Flavorful Coating: The blend of spices and Panko breadcrumbs creates a delightful crunch that enhances every bite.
• Moist and Tender: Marinating in buttermilk ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender throughout cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (13×9 inch)
• Plastic bag
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking while allowing enough space for each chicken piece to crisp up perfectly.
• Plastic bag: Ideal for marinating chicken without making a mess; it allows for even coating with buttermilk.
• Whisk: Helps combine dry ingredients smoothly, ensuring your flour mixture is well-blended.

Ingredients

Breaded chicken pieces that are baked instead of fried come out moist and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.

For the Chicken

• 4-5 lbs chicken pieces, bone-in
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp dried mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning

For Baking

• 4 tbsp butter, melted

How to Make Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a plastic bag and pour in the buttermilk to coat them. Squeeze out excess air before sealing the bag. Gently massage the buttermilk into the chicken for even coverage. Let it marinate in your refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, Panko breadcrumbs, baking powder, and all spices until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Baking Dish

Place your non-glass baking dish in the oven for at least 15 minutes to heat up. Once hot, remove it carefully. Take the marinated chicken from the bag, shaking off any excess buttermilk before dredging each piece in your seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish

Pour melted butter into your heated baking dish. Carefully arrange each piece of coated chicken on top, leaving ample space between them for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake your chicken for 12 minutes. Afterward, turn each piece over and bake for another 12 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through, remove from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Oven Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Serving your oven fried chicken recipe can elevate the dining experience. This dish is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Classic Pairings

• Coleslaw – A crunchy and refreshing side that complements the richness of fried chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy create a comforting combination.
• Corn on the Cob – Sweet and juicy corn adds a delightful pop of flavor.

Unique Twists

• Spicy Pickles – Add a zesty kick with tangy, spicy pickles on the side.
• Honey Drizzle – A drizzle of honey can enhance the dish’s sweetness and flavor profile.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad provides a fresh contrast to the hearty chicken.

Family Style Serving

• Serving Platter – Arrange pieces on a large platter for a communal dining experience.
• Dipping Sauces – Offer a variety of sauces like ranch or barbecue for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

To ensure your oven fried chicken recipe turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips:

• Marinating Time – Letting the chicken marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes helps tenderize the meat and enhance flavor.
• Preheat Your Pan – Heating the baking dish before adding chicken creates an instant sear, promoting a crispy texture.
• Bold Use Panko Breadcrumbs – Opting for Panko instead of regular breadcrumbs results in an extra crunch that elevates the overall dish.
• Bold Check Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your oven fried chicken recipe can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some delicious options:

1. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans add depth and heartiness to your plate.
2. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves.
3. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices or sauce.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted veggies provide a healthy balance to your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and brightness alongside the chicken.
6. Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy fried green tomatoes offer a Southern twist that pairs beautifully with fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Skipping the marinade – Not allowing the chicken to marinate in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Not preheating the oven – Failing to preheat your oven means uneven cooking, which can result in soggy chicken. Ensure your oven reaches 425°F before baking.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too many chicken pieces in the baking dish can cause steaming instead of crisping. Leave space between each piece for best results.
• Ignoring cooking time – Removing the chicken too early can leave it undercooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
• Using regular breadcrumbs – Substituting regular breadcrumbs for Panko can yield a less crispy texture. Stick with Panko for a crunchier bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Oven fried chicken will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe.

How do I achieve crispy skin with this Oven Fried Chicken Recipe?

To get that perfect crispy skin, ensure you use Panko breadcrumbs and preheat your baking dish with butter before adding the chicken.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust cooking times as it may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

What sides go well with Oven Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to cook Oven Fried Chicken?

Cooking time is approximately 24 minutes total, but always check that internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I customize the spices in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorites to personalize the flavor of your oven fried chicken.

Final Thoughts

The Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken without frying. It’s versatile enough for family dinners or casual gatherings. You can easily customize it by experimenting with different seasonings or serving it alongside your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!