Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Breaded chicken pieces that are baked instead of fried come out moist and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. With its delightful crunch and juicy flavor, it’s a healthier twist on traditional fried chicken that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Enjoy the crispy texture you crave without the excess oil.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe suitable for cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful Seasoning: A blend of spices adds depth and richness to each bite.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served with sides for a complete meal.
• Great Leftovers: Tasty even after reheating, making it ideal for meal prep.

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Tools and Preparation

This recipe requires some basic kitchen tools to ensure your oven-fried chicken comes out perfectly every time. Let’s gather what you need!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (non-glass)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Plastic bag for marinating
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish (non-glass): Retains heat well, ensuring an even cook and crispy finish.
• Whisk: Helps combine dry ingredients smoothly for even coating on the chicken.
• Plastic bag for marinating: Allows for easy coating and prevents mess during marination.

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

1. Place the chicken pieces in a plastic bag and pour in the buttermilk to coat them thoroughly.
2. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag and seal it tightly.
3. Massage the bag gently to ensure all pieces are coated evenly in buttermilk.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This high temperature ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, Panko breadcrumbs, baking powder, celery salt, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, white pepper, dried mustard, paprika, ground ginger, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Step 4: Heat Your Baking Dish

Place a 13 x 9-inch non-glass baking dish in the oven. Allow it to heat up for at least 15 minutes to create a golden crust.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from buttermilk:
1. Shake off excess liquid before dredging each piece in the flour mixture.
2. Ensure all sides are well-coated.

Step 6: Bake Your Chicken

1. Remove the hot baking dish from the oven carefully.
2. Pour melted butter into the dish.
3. Arrange coated chicken pieces in a single layer with space between them.
4. Bake for 12 minutes; then turn each piece over and bake another 12 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven and allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Oven Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Oven fried chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Classic Pairings

• Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy side that adds freshness to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn complements the savory, crispy chicken beautifully.

Fun and Creative Options

• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese brings comfort food vibes that everyone loves.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans add depth to your meal, making it more filling.

Light & Healthy Choices

• Steamed Broccoli: A simple, healthy side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

To achieve optimal results with your oven fried chicken, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and crispy every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: These larger crumbs create extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Preheat Your Baking Dish: Heating the dish before adding the chicken helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior.
• Space Out the Chicken: Give each piece enough room in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain its juices, making each bite moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Pairing your oven fried chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options you might consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements fried chicken perfectly.
2. Southern Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up any sauces or gravies served alongside your dish.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy green tomatoes add an unexpected twist and a bit of tanginess to balance out flavors.
4. Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges offer a hearty option that echoes the crispiness of the chicken itself.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Slightly sweet fries provide a delightful contrast against savory oven fried chicken.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad adds brightness to your plate, balancing richer flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Skipping or shortening the marination time can lead to dry chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but let it sit longer for more flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the baking dish prevents even cooking and crispiness. Ensure there’s space between each piece.
• Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating the baking dish can result in soggy chicken. Always heat your dish for at least 15 minutes before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F.
• Using regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs lack the crunch that Panko offers. Stick with Panko breadcrumbs for that crispy texture you desire.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover Oven Fried Chicken Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer-safe bags.
• Properly stored, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking regularly to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious Oven Fried Chicken Recipe:

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, make sure to use Panko breadcrumbs and preheat your baking dish properly.

Can I use skinless chicken for this Oven Fried Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but keep in mind that it may not be as juicy as bone-in pieces.

What should I serve with my Oven Fried Chicken Recipe?

Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Oven Fried Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to experiment with spices or marinades based on your taste preferences. Adding herbs or different seasonings can enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy crispy chicken without deep frying. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and pairings, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!