Easy Oven-baked Fried Chicken Recipe: A Delightful Dish For Busy Weeknights And Special Gatherings

Fried chicken is a classic comfort food that has captured the hearts of food lovers for generations. However, traditional fried chicken recipes often involve deep-frying, which can result in high levels of unhealthy fats and calories. If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy this delectable dish, look no further than this oven-baked fried chicken recipe. With a crispy, golden-brown crust and tender, juicy meat, this oven-baked version offers all the flavors of traditional fried chicken without the added guilt.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.

2. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

3. Bake the Chicken:

• Place the chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
• Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it in to ensure even coverage.
• Bake the chicken for 20 minutes, then flip the pieces and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

4. Serve:

• Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges.
• Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Crispy Oven-Baked Fried Chicken:

• Use a wire rack: Baking the chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the pieces, resulting in a crispy crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure there is enough space between the chicken pieces so that they can cook evenly.
• Flip the chicken halfway through cooking: Flipping the chicken ensures that it cooks evenly on both sides and develops a golden-brown crust.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).

Variations:

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a cheesy, flavorful crust.
• Lemon Herb Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of dried oregano and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the flour mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a tangy, crunchy element to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, provide a healthy and colorful side dish.
• Cornbread: Warm, fluffy cornbread is a delicious accompaniment to fried chicken.
• Gravy: A simple gravy made from the chicken drippings adds extra flavor and richness to the dish.

This Oven-Baked Fried Chicken Recipe Is:

• Healthier: This recipe uses olive oil instead of deep-frying, resulting in a lower-fat, healthier version of fried chicken.
• Crispy: The chicken is coated in a flavorful flour mixture that creates a crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Tender and Juicy: Despite being baked in the oven, the chicken remains tender and juicy on the inside.
• Versatile: This recipe can be easily customized with different spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.

The Health Benefits of Oven-Baked Fried Chicken:

• Lower in Fat: Oven-baking the chicken instead of deep-frying significantly reduces the fat content, making it a healthier choice.
• Reduced Calories: Oven-baked fried chicken has fewer calories compared to traditional fried chicken, making it a more weight-conscious option.
• Heart-Healthy: The use of olive oil in this recipe provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Versatile: This recipe can be easily customized to include more vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutritional value.

Final Thoughts:

This oven-baked fried chicken recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, offering a crispy crust, tender meat, and a variety of flavors. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without compromising on their health.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. However, the cooking time may vary, so adjust it accordingly.

Q: What other spices can I add to the flour mixture?

A: You can add various spices to the flour mixture to customize the flavor of your fried chicken. Some popular options include chili powder, cumin, oregano, and rosemary.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

A: To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).