If you have been craving that perfect crunch of fried chicken but want to skip the deep frying, then this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. This recipe transforms simple chicken strips into a golden, flavorful delight with a crispiness that rivals any fried favorite, all while baking in the oven for a lighter, easier finish. The combination of well-seasoned breading, a hot pan, and a little bit of butter creates this magical texture that makes you want to reach for more and more. Trust me, once you try this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe, you’ll keep coming back for seconds and thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe. Each element here plays a unique role—whether it’s the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken, the combination of spices that gives the perfect kick, or the butter that helps achieve that irresistible crispy crust.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue to hold the breading securely on the chicken pieces.
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (or regular milk): Adds tenderness and subtle tang; buttermilk is the classic choice for extra depth.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the crunchy coating on your chicken.
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian seasoned): Contributes extra crunch and texture that make each bite sing.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the breading puff up lightly, making it less dense.
- 1.5 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste): Essential for bringing out all the flavors just right.
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika: Adds smokiness and brilliant warm color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory depth that complements chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts flavor complexity with a mild sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and balances the seasoning.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into strips): The star of the show — tender, lean meat perfect for this recipe.
- 1/4 cup butter (or more as needed): Helps brown the chicken beautifully and adds rich flavor.
How to Make Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to place a dark-colored or cast iron pan inside to heat up along with the oven. This hot pan is a clever trick that helps the chicken get that crispy, golden crust right from the moment it hits the surface, mimicking a frying pan but with all the convenience of oven cooking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Breading Mixtures
While the oven and pan heat, whisk together the egg and buttermilk in a medium bowl—this will be your wet coating. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, baking powder, and all the seasoning. This double-breading method ensures each strip is covered in that crunchy, flavorful crust we’re aiming for in this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Like a Pro
Take your chicken strips and first toss them in the flour mixture to coat them lightly. Shake off any excess to keep the coating balanced. Then, dip each piece into the egg-and-buttermilk mixture, followed by another dip back into the flour mixture—this time pressing the breading firmly onto the chicken. This extra step guarantees a thick, crunchy layer that stays put through cooking.
Step 4: Place Chicken on the Hot Pan
Carefully remove your preheated pan from the oven and melt the butter directly in it. The combination of hot pan and butter creates the perfect frying environment inside your oven. Place the breaded chicken strips on the pan, making sure there’s a bit of space between each piece so they crisp evenly. If your pan is crowded, cook in batches for best results.
Step 5: Oven Fry Your Chicken
Bake the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness. Adding a little more butter when flipping helps maintain that crisp crust. To finish, switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and extra crispy. This last step seals the deal on that mouthwatering crunch.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked to perfection, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to lock in the juices and avoid burning your mouth on excitement. Now you’re ready to dive into the best Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe experience—golden, juicy, and full of flavor with none of the mess of deep frying.
How to Serve Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little flaky sea salt makes the dish pop visually and elevates flavor with a fresh, bright touch. A wedge of lemon on the side also works wonders by adding a citrusy burst to each bite.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like creamy mashed potatoes or coleslaw create comforting harmony, while roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad offer a lighter, fresher complement. Cornbread or buttery dinner rolls are also fantastic for rounding out this meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe atop a bed of cheesy grits or with a drizzle of a spicy honey mustard sauce for a Southern twist. For a fun family dinner, make slider sandwiches with pickles and your favorite sauce slipped inside soft buns.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken wrapped loosely in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best if eaten within 3 days to maintain flavor and texture, though it can be safe for a bit longer if stored properly.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe handy for busy nights, freeze cooked chicken strips on a parchment-lined tray before transferring to a freezer bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that signature crisp, reheat your chicken in an oven or toaster oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Absolutely! Regular milk works fine if you don’t have buttermilk on hand. To mimic buttermilk’s tang, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using.
What is the purpose of baking powder in the breading?
Baking powder helps create a lighter and crispier crust by introducing tiny bubbles when heated. This makes the breading less dense and wonderfully crunchy, essential to this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe’s texture.
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?
Bone-in chicken can be used, but cooking times will be longer. Also, flipping and broiling require careful attention to avoid burning the coating. For quick, even cooking, boneless strips are ideal.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy inside?
The buttermilk soak tenderizes the chicken, while the hot pan and quick baking preserve moisture. Balancing baking time is key—avoid overcooking to keep that juicy interior paired with the crispy outside.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Make sure your baking powder and spices are gluten-free as well to keep this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe safe and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about achieving that perfect crispy coating without deep frying, and this Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe hits the mark beautifully. It’s easy, flavorful, and satisfies every craving for crunchy, tender chicken without the fuss or mess. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be delighted at how foolproof and delicious homemade oven fried chicken can be!
Print
Crispy Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Crispy Oven Fried Chicken recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken by baking it in the oven to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Coated in a flavorful seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, and finished under the broiler for extra crispiness, it’s a perfect dish for a satisfying meal without the mess of deep frying.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup buttermilk (or regular milk; see notes)
- 1/4 cup butter (or more as needed)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian seasoned recommended)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Protein
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips (2–3 strips per breast)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Place a dark-colored or cast iron pan in the oven so it heats up along with the oven to ensure the chicken crisps well when placed on the hot surface.
- Prepare breading: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk until combined. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Bread the chicken: Coat the chicken strips evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip each piece into the egg and buttermilk mixture, then dip back into the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breading adheres well to the chicken.
- Place chicken on pan: Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and melt the butter on it. Place the breaded chicken strips on the pan in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. You may need to bake in batches depending on pan size.
- Oven fry: Bake the chicken for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and bake for another 5-10 minutes depending on thickness. Add more butter to the pan if necessary. Finish by broiling the chicken for 1-2 minutes until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to let the juices settle. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness, but regular milk can be used as a substitute.
- Use a dark or cast iron pan for best heat retention and crispiness.
- Broiling at the end crisps the coating beautifully—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Chicken pieces should be evenly sized to ensure even cooking.
- Butter can be increased for a richer flavor and crispier crust.
