Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Breaded chicken pieces that are baked instead of fried come out moist and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. This Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With its delicious flavor and satisfying crunch, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the taste of fried chicken without the added oil and calories.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Flavorful Seasoning: A blend of spices ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for any occasion—serve it with sides or as a main dish.
• Crispy Texture: The Panko breadcrumbs provide an irresistible crunch that mimics traditional frying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (non-glass)
• Whisk
• Plastic bag
• Oven mitts
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish (non-glass): Using a non-glass baking dish helps achieve optimal heat distribution for even cooking.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even coating on your chicken.
• Meat thermometer: This tool guarantees your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F, so you serve perfectly cooked meat.

Ingredients

Breaded chicken pieces that are baked instead of fried come out moist and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4-5 lbs chicken pieces, bone-in
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp celery salt
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp dried mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning

For Baking

• 4 tbsp butter, melted

How to Make Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a plastic bag and pour in the buttermilk to coat.
1. Squeeze out excess air from the bag and seal it.
2. Massage the chicken gently to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, Panko breadcrumbs, baking powder, celery salt, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, white pepper, dried mustard, paprika, ground ginger, and Italian seasoning.
2. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Dish

Place a 13 x 9” non-glass baking dish in your preheated oven to heat up for at least 15 minutes.
1. After heating, remove the chicken from buttermilk.
2. Shake off excess buttermilk before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Add Butter and Arrange Chicken

Add melted butter to your heated baking dish.
1. Arrange chicken pieces on top of the butter with space between them for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Bake for 12 minutes.
1. Turn each piece over carefully after 12 minutes.
2. Continue baking for another 12 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Serve Your Delicious Chicken

Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Oven Fried Chicken Recipe!

How to Serve Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Oven fried chicken is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. You can pair it with a variety of sides and sauces to elevate your meal.

Classic Pairings

• Coleslaw – A crunchy and creamy coleslaw balances the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that complements the flavors of the chicken.

Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard – Sweet and tangy, honey mustard is a delightful dip for each bite.
• BBQ Sauce – Smoky BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the seasoning of the chicken.

Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and a crunchy texture to your meal.
• Garden Salad – Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette can lighten up the plate alongside your oven fried chicken.

How to Perfect Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results from your oven fried chicken recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for 6 hours enhances moisture and flavor.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs – These breadcrumbs create an extra crispy coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Preheat Your Baking Dish – Heating the dish before adding chicken helps achieve a crispy exterior right away.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give each piece plenty of space to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your oven fried chicken can take your meal to the next level. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Corn on the Cob – Sweet, juicy corn complements the savory flavors of fried chicken.
2. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans add a sweet and smoky flavor profile that works well with chicken.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is a favorite comfort food that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition to your plate.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes – A Southern classic, they bring a tangy crunch that enhances your meal’s texture.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory oven-fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are key mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Always allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor and moisture.
• Not Preheating the Baking Dish: Placing chicken in a cold dish can result in soggy breading. Ensure your baking dish is hot before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding your chicken pieces can cause them to steam rather than crisp up. Make sure to leave space between each piece for even cooking.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature may lead to undercooking or overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F.
• Using Regular Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t yield that perfect crunchy texture. Stick with Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Oven Fried Chicken Recipe.

Can I use skinless chicken pieces?

Yes, you can use skinless pieces, but keep in mind that skin adds flavor and moisture.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.

What sides go well with this Oven Fried Chicken Recipe?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob pair perfectly with this crispy dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space in your oven and adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

The Oven Fried Chicken Recipe offers a delightful combination of tenderness inside and crispiness outside. This dish is versatile and can be customized with various spices or marinades according to your taste preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!