Southern-Style Oven-Fried Chicken is a healthier take on the classic fried chicken, offering all the crispy, golden goodness without the extra oil. This dish features chicken pieces coated in a seasoned flour mixture, then baked in the oven to achieve that perfectly crunchy crust. The chicken is tender and juicy on the inside, with a flavorful, crispy exterior that will satisfy your fried chicken cravings. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or any time you want a comforting Southern favorite without the mess of deep frying.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Prepare the Coating:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing to adhere.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.
Enjoy this Southern-Style Oven-Fried Chicken as a delicious and lighter alternative to traditional fried chicken, perfect for any occasion!
