Description

Baked fried chicken gives you all the crispy, golden goodness of traditional fried chicken, without the mess or guilt. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and crunch, baked to perfection with a healthier twist.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

4 chicken drumsticks

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack with non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.
Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the wire rack. Lightly brush or drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter to encourage crispiness.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until the coating is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving for the juiciest bite.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

For added heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add more hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

If using bone-in breasts, adjust cooking time as needed.

For extra flavor, add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the flour mixture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the coating crispy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 100mg