Name: Baked Fried Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thirds; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp seasoned salt (like Lawry’s); 3/4 tsp pepper; 2 tsp paprika; 1/2 stick butter (1/4 cup); Buttermilk (enough to soak chicken)

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If you’ve ever craved crispy, golden fried chicken without the mess of deep frying, then this Baked Fried Chicken recipe is about to become your new best friend! Trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s all about that crispy, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender inside—without any of the grease. It’s like getting the best of both worlds: the crispy comfort of fried chicken and the convenience of baking. Picture sinking your teeth into that perfect crust, and then enjoying the tender, flavorful meat inside. This one is definitely a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Baked Fried Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about chicken—it’s about making life easier while still enjoying those big, bold flavors you crave. Here’s why this dish is a go-to:

Versatile

Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a weekend gathering, or enjoying a quiet night in, this baked fried chicken can be your hero. It’s perfect for when you need something comforting and crowd-pleasing but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Budget-Friendly

Made with simple ingredients that you likely already have at home, this recipe is proof that you don’t need anything fancy to create extraordinary flavors. It’s great when you’re sticking to a budget but want something hearty and filling.

Quick and Easy

This isn’t a recipe that requires hours of prep or an advanced cooking degree. It’s straight to the point, with easy steps that anyone can follow. You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to make this meal shine.

Customizable

Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste. Add a little cayenne pepper if you like things spicy, or keep it mild for the kids. This recipe is your canvas to make it as bold or as subtle as you want.

Crowd-Pleasing

The crispy, golden crunch is something everyone can agree on. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this chicken will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this delicious baked fried chicken. It’s all about simple ingredients that come together to create that perfect crunch and juiciness.

Chicken Pieces

The star of the dish—whether you’re using drumsticks, thighs, or breasts, the chicken should be fresh and bone-in for the best flavor and juiciness.

Flour

All-purpose flour is your secret weapon for creating the crispiness you crave. It forms the perfect base for the crunchy coating that’ll make you say “yum” with every bite.

Seasonings

A blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder takes this dish to the next level. It’s simple but packs a punch, giving that crispy skin the perfect balance of savory and slightly smoky flavors.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk is key to giving the chicken a tender, juicy interior while also helping the coating stick beautifully to the chicken. The tanginess adds an extra layer of flavor that takes the chicken from good to great.

Eggs

Eggs act as the binding agent, helping the flour and seasonings adhere to the chicken. They help create that beautiful golden brown exterior.

Cooking Spray

A little spritz of cooking spray will ensure the chicken’s crispy crust comes out just right without sticking to the pan.

Instructions

Let’s get to the fun part—the cooking! Here’s how you’ll take your chicken from ordinary to extraordinary:

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will give the chicken that crispy, golden texture that we all love.

Prepare Your Coating

In a shallow dish, combine flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning mix is what’ll give your chicken that mouthwatering crust. Make sure it’s mixed well!

Dredge the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, coating it thoroughly. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks. You want each piece to have a nice, even coating.

Arrange the Chicken

Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure there’s a little space between each piece so the air can circulate and create that crispy finish. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help it get that beautiful golden color.

Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for that perfect golden brown color and a crispy coating. Check for doneness by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Finishing Touches

Once the chicken is baked to crispy perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute so the meat stays tender and juicy.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your baked fried chicken hot, and enjoy it with your favorite sides. You’ll have a plate of crispy, golden deliciousness that’s guaranteed to impress!

How to Serve Baked Fried Chicken

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, so here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Crispy Salads: Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread are classic sides that will never steer you wrong.
Breads: Serve with warm biscuits or cornbread to soak up any juices or add an extra layer of comfort.
Veggies: Roasted vegetables, like carrots or green beans, make a great pairing for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

Double the Batch: Baked fried chicken makes amazing leftovers, so consider making extra. Store the extras in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Spice It Up: Add a little cayenne or chili powder to the flour mix if you like a bit of heat. It’ll bring a nice kick to your chicken.
Buttermilk Substitution: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A1: You can! While bone-in chicken gives the best flavor and juiciness, boneless chicken works just as well. Just adjust the cooking time.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can prep the chicken and coat it the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best crispy texture.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?
A4: Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked, coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for longer storage. When you’re ready to bake, just cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q5: Can I make the chicken spicier?
A5: Definitely! Add a little cayenne or your favorite hot sauce to the buttermilk or flour mixture for a spicy twist.

Q6: How do I make the crust even crispier?
A6: Try adding a bit of cornstarch to the flour mixture, or bake the chicken on a rack to allow air to circulate around the pieces.

Q7: What can I serve with baked fried chicken?
A7: Pair it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, a light salad, or even some crispy fries. It’s great with just about anything!

Q8: Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
A8: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use less oil and try baking on a rack to allow the fat to drip away.

Q9: Can I make the chicken gluten-free?
A9: Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. It will still be delicious!

Q10: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A10: Use a meat thermometer! The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).