Baked fried chicken is a healthier version of traditional fried chicken that gives you the crispy, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender interior, but without the excess oil. Here’s a simple recipe to make baked fried chicken:
Ingredients:
- Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, etc.) – about 8 pieces
- Buttermilk – 1 cup
- All-purpose flour – 1 ½ cups
- Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1 ½ teaspoons
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – ½ teaspoon (for extra spice)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for coating)
- Parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This will help tenderize the chicken.
- Prepare the Breading:
- In a large shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix everything well until thoroughly combined.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Then, dip the chicken into the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Lay the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all chicken pieces.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help with crisping.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken pieces), flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips:
- For even crispier chicken, you can use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet so the air circulates around the chicken as it bakes.
- You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breading for extra flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Enjoy your delicious and crispy baked fried chicken!
