Description
Enjoy crispy oven-fried chicken that’s tender inside and golden outside. Marinated in buttermilk for flavor, this healthier alternative to frying is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pounds of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
- Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure an even coating.
- Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or drizzle the pieces with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes.
- About halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken pieces to ensure even browning.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the crispy oven-fried chicken with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. If you can, aim for an overnight soak.
- Flour Mixture Variations: Feel free to experiment with the spices in the flour mixture. Adding a bit of Italian seasoning or even some grated Parmesan can elevate the flavor.
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, helping to create that crispy crust.
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to regain its crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes