New Method Fried Chicken: Crispy & Delicious Recipe

Craving Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken Without the Fuss?

Imagine biting into incredibly juicy fried chicken with a shatteringly crisp crust – and all of it cooked in the oven! That’s right, this recipe delivers all the flavor and crunch you love about fried chicken, but with a method that’s easier, healthier, and a whole lot less messy. Get ready to be amazed!

Why You’ll Love It

• Effortless oven-baked method: No deep frying, no splattering oil – just pure deliciousness with minimal mess.
• Incredibly crispy crust: Thanks to a special breading technique, you’ll get that satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Juicy and tender chicken: The chicken remains moist and flavorful, never dry or tough.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable flavor: Easily adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your average oven-baked chicken! What sets this recipe apart is the double breading method, combined with a specific baking technique. The chicken is first coated in a seasoned buttermilk mixture, then dredged in a special blend of flour and cornstarch. Finally, the chicken is baked on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. This combination ensures even baking, maximum crispiness, and incredibly tender meat, all without deep frying.

Ingredient List

• 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, and/or drumsticks)
• 1 cup buttermilk: The acid in the buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch: Cornstarch helps create an extra crispy crust.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they are fully coated in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. While the chicken is marinating, in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk at a time, letting any excess drip off, then dredge it in the flour mixture. Ensure the chicken is fully coated, pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken if needed. Shake off any excess.
5. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the wire rack in a single layer.
6. Drizzle or brush each piece of chicken with melted butter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to kick things up a notch? Here are some delicious topping and variation ideas:

• Spicy Honey Glaze: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of hot sauce. Brush on the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Lemon Herb: Sprinkle the chicken with fresh lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) after baking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Dust the cooked chicken with grated parmesan cheese.
• Garlic Aioli: Serve with a side of garlic aioli for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Ensure the chicken is fully coated in both the buttermilk mixture and the breading mixture for maximum flavor and crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave some space between the chicken pieces to allow for even air circulation and baking.
• Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.
• For an even crispier crust, you can flip the chicken pieces halfway through the baking process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use boneless, skinless chicken? While you can use boneless, skinless chicken, the bone-in, skin-on chicken will yield the most flavorful and juicy results. If using boneless, adjust baking time accordingly.
• Can I use different spices? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Can I make this ahead of time? The best results are achieved when the chicken is cooked and served fresh. However, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours, or even freeze the breaded chicken for later use. Add a few extra minutes to baking time when cooking frozen chicken.
• How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Can I reheat the chicken? To reheat, you can bake it in the oven or use an air fryer to keep the crispness. Microwaving will make it less crispy.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are some ways to customize it:

• Spice it Up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the breading for a spicier kick.
• Herb-Forward: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or dill.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano into the breading mixture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Garlic Lover’s: add 1 to 2 teaspoons of garlic powder into the dry ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This oven-baked fried chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. For a healthier option, serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing!

Conclusion

This oven-baked fried chicken recipe is a game-changer! It delivers all the incredible flavor and satisfying crunch of traditional fried chicken, but in a healthier and less messy way. It’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and try this amazing recipe! And don’t forget to share your photos with us using #OvenBakedFriedChicken. We can’t wait to see your creations!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Swiss Chard and Eggs Benedict
• Stuffed Mushrooms

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and baking tips delivered straight to your inbox!