Name: Baked Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481176H49M25S
Total time: PT-481176H49M25S
Cuisine: : American
Ingredients: 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken (breasts, thighs, and drumsticks); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp hot sauce (optional); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Vegetable oil cooking spray for greasing

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).

Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them thoroughly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for up to 8 hours.

Preparing the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Coating the Chicken:

In a shallow dish or large resealable bag, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess liquid drip off.
Place the chicken in the flour mixture, tossing or shaking until each piece is evenly coated.

Baking the Chicken:

Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Lightly spray the chicken with vegetable oil cooking spray to promote browning and crispiness.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.

Serving:

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

Serve your crispy and flavorful Baked Fried Chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

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Serving and Storage Tips:

Garnish and Presentation: Before serving, you can garnish the Baked Fried Chicken with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and freshness. Additionally, serving the chicken alongside lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor experience.

Accompaniments: Pair the Baked Fried Chicken with a variety of delicious side dishes. Classic options include creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, tangy coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize your meal according to your preferences and seasonal ingredients.
Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with aluminum foil. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to use an oven or toaster oven to help retain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Freezing Instructions: Baked Fried Chicken can also be frozen for future meals. After baking and cooling, place the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen Baked Fried Chicken can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Baked Fried Chicken remains delicious, crispy, and enjoyable whether served fresh or reheated. Enjoy the convenience of having a flavorful meal on hand whenever you crave the comforting taste of homemade fried chicken!

FAQs:

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?

While bone-in, skin-on chicken is recommended for optimal flavor and juiciness, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken if preferred. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted as boneless cuts tend to cook faster. Additionally, the absence of skin may result in slightly less crispy coating, but the chicken will still be delicious.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor, resulting in juicier and more flavorful Baked Fried Chicken. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step or reduce the marinating time to as little as 15-20 minutes. While it may not yield the same depth of flavor, the chicken will still be tasty.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the hot sauce, are also gluten-free. Additionally, double-check that your paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper are free from any gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination.

How do I achieve maximum crispiness?

To achieve maximum crispiness when baking the chicken, ensure that you preheat your oven adequately and use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spraying the coated chicken with vegetable oil cooking spray before baking helps promote browning and crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can prevent proper airflow and lead to soggy chicken. Finally, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain its crispiness before serving.

Conclusion:

With this Baked Fried Chicken recipe, you can enjoy the irresistible taste of fried chicken with a healthier twist. Say goodbye to deep frying and hello to oven-baked goodness! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and savor every crispy bite!

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