Oven Fried Chicken

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes evoke as much satisfaction and joy as fried chicken. The golden, crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat make it a beloved choice for many. However, traditional frying methods can be cumbersome, messy, and often lead to unhealthy meals. Enter Crispy Herb-Infused Oven Fried Chicken—a delectable alternative that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with the ease and health benefits of baking.

Discover the deliciousness of Crispy Herb-Infused Oven Fried Chicken, a healthier twist on the classic comfort dish. This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken pieces with a golden, crispy exterior, achieved through simple baking instead of frying. Marinated in buttermilk and coated with a mix of fragrant herbs and spices, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Follow our easy preparation and cooking techniques to impress family and friends with this flavorful meal that balances indulgence and nutrition.

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Ingredients

4 pieces of chicken (legs or thighs recommended)

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter

Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary) for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure each piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Prepare the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.

Add Oil: Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the chicken, ensuring each piece has a little oil to help it crisp up during baking.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown and crispy. You may want to flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.

Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr | 4 servings