The Best Oven Fried Chicken Recipe (Baked Fried Chicken)

An Engaging Introduction

Who doesn’t love the crispy, flavorful goodness of fried chicken? But what if you could enjoy that delicious taste without the guilt of deep frying? Introducing the BEST Oven Fried Chicken recipe! This baked version provides all the satisfying crunch of traditional fried chicken but is much lower in fat, using lean chicken breast. It tastes just like the famous KFC chicken but with a healthier twist.

Ever since I began experimenting with my Instant Pot earlier this year, I’ve found a new love for cooking chicken breasts. While KFC isn’t something I crave frequently, their spice blend is undeniably amazing. This oven-fried chicken captures that same exquisite flavor, making it a family favorite in our household—and you might find it becoming one of yours too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful without the deep-fried guilt.
• Easy to make with a handful of common ingredients.
• Healthier than traditional fried chicken.
• Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Rimmed baking sheet (10x15x1”)
• Parchment paper
• Brush for butter
• Large paper or Ziploc bag
• Tongs
• Wire rack (optional)

Ingredients

• 3-4 chicken breasts (about 1lb), cut into strips
• 4-5 tbsp melted butter
• 3/4 cup flour
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s)
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and brush the top with melted butter. You’ll need a little extra butter to ensure the coating crisps up nicely.
2. If using fresh chicken breasts, soak them in milk or buttermilk for 15-30 minutes to help the coating stick better. Thawed frozen breasts are typically moist enough without this step.
3. In a large paper or Ziploc bag, combine flour, Panko breadcrumbs, salt, seasoning salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Add the chicken strips to the bag, seal it, and shake until each piece is well coated.
5. For extra crispiness, you can double coat the chicken by dipping it in buttermilk and then coating it again in the flour mixture. Prepare extra coating if you choose this option.
6. Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each piece.
7. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each strip gently with tongs and bake for another 10 minutes.
8. Check the chicken for doneness (internal temperature should be 165 degrees F). If needed, bake for an additional 4-5 minutes.
9. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve immediately, or keep warm on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a 225 degree F oven until ready to serve.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for optimal crispiness.
• Leave space between chicken pieces to allow even cooking and crisping.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to suit your taste preferences.
• For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
• Try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is lower in fat compared to traditional fried chicken, thanks to baking instead of frying. It’s a great source of lean protein and can be part of a balanced meal when paired with vegetables or a salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will result in a juicier dish.
• How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.

Conclusion

There you have it—the perfect recipe for crispy, flavorful oven-fried chicken that’s both healthier and just as delicious as the traditional version. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and see why it’s a favorite in our family. When you do, please share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below. Happy cooking!