You’ve Got To Try This Crunchy Oven “Fried” Chicken

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Who doesn’t love the irresistible crunch and juiciness of fried chicken? But if you’re looking to enjoy this classic comfort food with a little less guilt, this oven “fried” chicken recipe is the answer. We’re taking the best elements of traditional fried chicken and baking it for a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor or crunch. This recipe gives you that perfect crispy exterior and juicy interior without the heavy feeling.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (excludes marinading time)
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes + marinading time
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Cooking spray or melted butter for coating

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken (60 minutes to overnight): In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  2. Prepare Coating (5 minutes): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat Chicken (10 minutes): Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Press each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated on all sides.
  4. Bake (35-45 minutes): Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set on a baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken from getting soggy on the bottom. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or brush with melted butter for an extra golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crunchy.

Notes

This crunchy oven “fried” chicken delivers all the deliciousness without the deep-fryer. It’s perfect for family dinners, picnics, or any time you’re craving that fried chicken experience but want to keep things on the lighter side. To round out the meal, pair it with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. And for dipping? A honey mustard sauce or a homemade BBQ sauce pairs beautifully.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 365
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Pair this with...

Macaroni Salad

To whip this dish up, start by boiling a pot of water and cooking your macaroni until it's al dente. While it cooks, chop up some crunchy celery, sweet bell peppers, and a red onion for a burst of color and flavor. Once the pasta is done, drain and let it cool. In a separate bowl, mix together mayo, a splash of vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and some mustard to create that tangy dressing we all love. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, toss the cooled macaroni with the chopped veggies, and then fold in the dressing, ensuring everything gets a good coat. Let it chill in the fridge for a couple of hours to let those flavors meld. Before serving, give your Macaroni Salad a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley.

Herby Baked Smashed Potatoes

Start with baby potatoes, boiling them until they're just tender. Once boiled, place them on a baking tray and use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to gently 'smash' them, keeping them mostly intact but flattened. Drizzle with olive oil, letting it seep into the crevices created by the smashing. Now, sprinkle a medley of your favorite herbs over them. Think rosemary, thyme, or even a touch of parsley. Add a pinch of sea salt and a crack of black pepper to enhance those herbal notes. Bake in a preheated oven until the edges of the potatoes turn crispy and golden, while the centers remain soft and fluffy.

Southern Style Collard Greens

"Start by selecting a hearty bunch of fresh collard greens, washing them thoroughly and removing the tough stems. Slice the greens into broad ribbons and set them aside. In a large pot, sauté some diced onions until translucent. Add chunks of savory ham, letting the meat brown slightly and release its smoky aroma. Once the ham is sizzling, pile in your collard greens. They'll seem towering at first, but they'll wilt down significantly. Pour in some chicken broth for added depth and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick. Let everything simmer slowly, melding the flavors together.

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!