Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the crispy texture of fried chicken without the guilt of deep frying. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or casual evenings at home. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavor, your taste buds will celebrate with every bite. Enjoy the combination of moist, tender chicken on the inside and a crunchy exterior, making it a favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the crispy goodness of fried chicken without the excess oil.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious meal.
• Versatile Flavoring: Use various spices to customize the taste to your liking.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or parties where everyone loves comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (non-glass)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Plastic bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish (non-glass): Ensures even cooking and allows for high temperatures without breaking.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly and easily.
• Whisk: Helps blend dry ingredients thoroughly for an even coating on your chicken.
• Plastic bag: Ideal for marinating chicken with buttermilk without any mess.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

• 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

For Seasoning

• 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. Squeeze out excess air from the bag and seal it tightly. Massage the chicken gently so that all pieces are evenly coated. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 6 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, Panko breadcrumbs, baking powder, and all seasonings until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Baking Dish

Place a non-glass baking dish measuring 13 x 9 inches in the oven to heat up for at least 15 minutes. While waiting for it to heat up, remove the marinated chicken from buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated on all sides.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Add melted butter to your hot baking dish. Carefully arrange chicken pieces atop it with enough space between each one for even cooking. Bake for about 12 minutes before turning each piece over. Bake another 12 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help retain moisture while enhancing flavor as it cools slightly. Enjoy your perfect Oven Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Serving your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe in a delightful manner enhances the dining experience. Here are some great ideas to consider for presenting this delicious dish.

Classic Comfort

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with chicken, offering a rich texture that balances the crispy exterior.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, making each bite of chicken even more enjoyable.

Elevate with Sauces

• Honey Mustard Dip: This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for those who like a little extra flavor on their chicken.
• BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce complements the spices in your chicken, providing a delightful taste combination.

Add Some Color

• Steamed Vegetables: Bright, steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots can lighten your meal and add nutritional value.
• Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a crisp and light side that balances the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

To make your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe even better, follow these simple tips for optimal results.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs, making your chicken extra crunchy.
• Preheat Your Baking Dish: Heating the baking dish before adding chicken helps achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and delicious eating.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some popular options to consider:

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory chicken; grill or boil it for a classic summer side.
2. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty, baked beans add depth to your meal with their sweet and smoky flavors.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, bringing comfort and satisfaction to any plate.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy tomatoes offer a Southern twist that pairs well with fried chicken.
5. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are easy to prepare and provide a satisfying crunch alongside your main dish.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread adds an aromatic touch that complements the flavors of oven-fried chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Oven Fried Chicken Recipe even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Chicken needs time to absorb flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably up to 6 hours for the best results.
• Skipping the flour mixture: This recipe relies on a seasoned flour mixture for crispy texture. Make sure to coat your chicken evenly before baking.
• Using a cold baking dish: A hot baking dish helps create that crispy exterior. Preheat your baking dish in the oven before adding the chicken.
• Crowding the pan: Give each piece space! Crowded chicken will steam instead of bake, preventing that desired crispiness.
• Ignoring the resting time: Allowing chicken to rest after baking helps retain moisture. Don’t skip this step for juicier results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen chicken can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Fried Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; add a bit of oil and heat until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Oven Fried Chicken Recipe that you might have:

Can I use boneless chicken pieces?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time as it may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

What can I serve with Oven Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

Make sure your baking dish is hot before adding the chicken and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Is this Oven Fried Chicken Recipe healthy?

While it’s not deep-fried, it still has butter and flour. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Final Thoughts

This Oven Fried Chicken Recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional frying methods while maintaining flavor and crunch. It’s versatile too—feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!