If you love the crunch of fried chicken but want to skip the deep fryer, oven-fried chicken is your new best friend. Making crispy fried chicken in the oven is not only healthier but also less messy and surprisingly simple. With the right technique and ingredients, you can achieve that golden, crunchy crust with juicy, tender meat inside. Let’s dive into how to make crispy fried chicken in the oven that rivals your favorite fried chicken joint!
Why Oven-Fried Chicken?
Oven-fried chicken offers all the flavor and texture of traditional fried chicken but with less oil and fuss. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want something indulgent without the guilt. Plus, it’s easier to prepare and clean up afterward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken pieces: Bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs, drumsticks, or breasts work best for juicy results.
– Buttermilk: For marinating, it tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
– Flour and breadcrumbs: A mix of all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs creates that crispy coating.
– Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices to taste.
– Butter or oil: To help crisp the coating in the oven.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crispy Oven Fried Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by soaking your chicken pieces in buttermilk mixed with a pinch of salt. This step is key for juicy, flavorful chicken. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight if you have time. The acidity in buttermilk breaks down proteins, making the chicken tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Breading
In a bowl, combine:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness)
– 1.5 teaspoons salt
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
3. Bread the Chicken
Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. First, coat each piece in the flour mixture, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it again in the flour mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to make sure it sticks well.
4. Prepare Your Baking Setup
Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Place a dark-colored or cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up. This helps the chicken start crisping as soon as it hits the pan.
5. Bake the Chicken
Carefully remove the hot skillet and add about ¼ cup of butter or oil, letting it melt and coat the pan. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in the pan with space between each piece to allow air circulation and even cooking.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken using a spatula (not tongs, to keep the breading intact). Bake for another 5-10 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Oven Fried Chicken
– Use a wire rack: Placing chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows air to circulate around the chicken, making it crispier.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each piece room to crisp up properly.
– Add cornstarch: Mixing cornstarch with flour in the breading can give an extra crunch.
– Spray with oil: Lightly spraying the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking helps achieve a golden crust.
– Use bone-in, skin-on pieces: These tend to stay juicier and crisp better than boneless, skinless cuts.
Why Isn’t My Oven Fried Chicken Crispy?
If your chicken isn’t turning out crispy, it might be due to:
– Too much moisture on the chicken before breading.
– Overcrowding the pan, which traps steam and prevents crisping.
– Not using enough fat (butter or oil) in the baking process.
– Baking at too low a temperature.
Adjusting these factors can make a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-fried chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. For a Southern-inspired meal, add baked beans or mac and cheese.
Enjoy crispy, juicy oven-fried chicken that’s easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. This method gives you all the crunch and flavor without the hassle of deep frying. Happy cooking!