Baked Fried Chicken: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite

Baked Fried Chicken: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite

Baked fried chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. This dish captures the crispy, flavorful essence of fried chicken while avoiding the excess oil and calories that come with frying. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, baked fried chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.

The Appeal of Baked Fried Chicken

Baked fried chicken allows you to enjoy the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the guilt. By using the oven instead of a deep fryer, you can achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This method is not only healthier but also easier, as it requires less hands-on time and cleanup.

Ingredients

To make baked fried chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 4 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or a mix)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Preparation Steps

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Place the chicken in a bowl or a zip-top bag, pour in the buttermilk, and ensure all pieces are well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This step tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to create a crispy crust.
  3. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour and set aside.
  5. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the coated chicken pieces in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For extra crispiness, you can place them on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.
  6. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This step helps to achieve a golden, crispy skin.