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Crispy Baked Chicken

Crispy Baked Chicken
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Crispy Baked Chicken offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken with the same irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness. Using simple pantry ingredients, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers golden, crispy chicken pieces baked to perfection, making it perfect for family meals, meal prep, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 3 to 4 pounds)
  • 1 to 2 cups buttermilk or plain yogurt (enough to fully coat the chicken)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free panko for gluten-free version)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Additional

  • Cooking spray or 2 tbsp oil for brushing/spraying

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk or yogurt mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. This tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick. Marinate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs or panko, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoned coating blend.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.
  4. Arrange and Spray: Place coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush with oil to promote even browning and crispiness.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through baking. Ensure the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Notes

  • Use a wire rack to elevate chicken, allowing air circulation to prevent soggy bottoms and ensure even crisping.
  • Pat chicken dry before coating to avoid soggy breading.
  • Including baking powder in the coating creates a bubbly crust that crisps beautifully.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give each piece space for proper crisping on all sides.
  • Allow chicken to rest a few minutes after baking to lock in juices and keep coating intact.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken, healthy fried chicken alternative, oven baked crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken thighs, meal prep chicken

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/crispy-baked-chicken/