Name: Crispy Oven Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10-12 chicken tenderloins; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ¼ cup fine cornmeal; 1 tbsp salt; 2 tsp chili powder; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder

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Craving that golden, crispy, ultra-crunchy fried chicken but don’t want the hassle (or the grease) of deep frying? Say hello to Crispy Oven Fried Chicken! This recipe gives you all the crunch and flavor of classic fried chicken—without the extra oil. It’s juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and incredibly easy to make. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to deep frying!

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The secret? A perfectly seasoned coating, a little oven magic, and a clever trick to ensure every bite is irresistibly crunchy. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Oven Fried Chicken

Crispy Without the Grease

You get all the crunch of traditional fried chicken—no deep fryer required!

Healthier Alternative

Baking instead of frying means less oil and fewer calories, making this a lighter but still indulgent meal.

Easy to Make

No need to stand over hot oil! Just coat, bake, and enjoy.

Versatile & Customizable

You can tweak the seasoning to match your taste—spicy, smoky, or classic Southern-style!

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love this crispy, juicy chicken. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create the perfect crispy coating:

Chicken Pieces

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts work best for juicy, flavorful results.

Buttermilk

Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute with milk and lemon juice!

Flour

Creates a light, crispy crust. A mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch gives the best texture.

Cornstarch

A secret weapon for extra crispiness! It makes the coating lighter and crunchier.

Seasonings

A flavorful mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of cayenne for heat.

Breadcrumbs or Panko

For even more crunch, adding a bit of panko makes a huge difference!

Eggs

Helps bind the coating to the chicken.

Oil or Butter

A little drizzle or brush of oil ensures a golden, crispy finish without frying.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).

Prepare the Coating

In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.

Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, let the excess drip off, then dip it into the egg mixture and coat it well with the flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack to prevent sticking.

Arrange the Chicken

Place the coated chicken on the rack, spacing the pieces out so they crisp up evenly. Lightly spray or brush the chicken with oil or melted butter for that golden finish.

Bake to Perfection

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.

Let It Rest & Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Oven Fried Chicken

With Classic Sides – Pair it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits for a true Southern-style meal.
On a Sandwich – Slap it between two buns with lettuce, pickles, and a drizzle of honey mustard.
With a Fresh Salad – Lighten things up with a crisp garden salad on the side.
As a Party Appetizer – Serve smaller drumsticks or wings with dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing snack.

Additional Tips

Use a Wire Rack

Baking the chicken on a rack allows air to circulate, giving you an even, crispy crust.

Don’t Skip the Buttermilk

Marinating in buttermilk makes the chicken extra tender and juicy!

Flip Halfway Through

Turn the chicken over halfway through baking for the best crispiness on all sides.

Want Extra Crunch?

Add a little crushed cornflakes to the breading for an even crispier texture.

Spice It Up

If you like heat, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

A1: Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight and coat it just before baking.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A2: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: What’s the best way to reheat crispy oven fried chicken?

A3: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy. Avoid the microwave!

Q4: Can I use boneless chicken?

A4: Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breasts work well but may need less baking time.

Q5: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A5: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Q6: Can I make this gluten-free?

A6: Yes! Use gluten-free flour and panko.

Q7: How do I make this extra crunchy?

A7: Add a handful of crushed cornflakes or extra panko to the coating.

Q8: What dipping sauces go best with this?

A8: Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all delicious options.

Q9: Can I use an air fryer instead?

A9: Yes! Cook at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q10: Can I freeze oven fried chicken?

A10: Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Oven Fried Chicken is the perfect way to get that golden, crunchy, juicy goodness—without the mess of deep frying. It’s easy, flavorful, and a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.