Baked Fried Chicken – Page 2

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is key to getting that crispy skin.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

3. Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk and whisk in the Dijon mustard (if using).
Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
Next, coat the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the flour sticks to the chicken.

4. Add Oil for Crispiness

Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the breaded chicken pieces or lightly brush them with a pastry brush. This helps the coating crisp up beautifully in the oven.

5. Bake the Chicken

Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through, until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

Crispier Skin: For even crispier chicken, place a wire rack on the baking sheet and set the chicken on top of it. This allows hot air to circulate all around the chicken, crisping up every side.
Marinate Overnight: For an even more flavorful chicken, marinate the chicken in buttermilk and spices overnight. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds extra moisture.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked without drying out, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonings. Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist, or sprinkle in some parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Sides: Pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to complement the crispy chicken.
Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Drink: A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs perfectly with the savory and crunchy chicken.

Storing and Reheating

Storage: Store leftover baked fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain the crispiness, reheat the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Why This Dish Stands Out

Baked Fried Chicken is a fantastic alternative to the deep-fried version, giving you the same satisfying crunch and tender meat, but without the heavy oil. The use of buttermilk and seasoned flour creates a perfectly crispy, flavorful coating, while baking ensures that you don’t lose any of the juiciness. It’s a healthier, easier way to enjoy fried chicken without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion

For a crispy, flavorful dish that’s both healthier and easier than traditional fried chicken, Baked Fried Chicken is the way to go. It’s a dish that the whole family will enjoy, whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With its golden-brown coating and tender meat, you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—without the need for a deep fryer!

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