Perfectly Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy way to make oven-fried chicken? This recipe will guide you through the process of creating crispy, tender, and flavorful chicken in your own home kitchen with minimal effort.

Oven-fried chicken is one of those dishes that can satisfy any craving for fried food without the heavy oil. The key to this method lies in a simple mix of ingredients: salt, pepper, flour, and spices. Once you have these basic components, all you need are some fresh chicken pieces or thighs.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken legs (about 1.5 pounds)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Canola oil for brushing (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it ensures that you get a well-seasoned dish.

3. In a large plastic bag, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and a pinch of salt for an extra flavor boost. Shake the mixture to mix everything evenly. If you are sensitive to gluten or have dietary restrictions, consider using almond flour or coconut flour as substitutes.

4. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the bag and shake until they're well coated with the flour mixture.

5. Rinse your baking sheet with hot water and dry it. Then lightly brush the bottom of the tray with a thin layer of canola oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. However, you may skip this step if you prefer not to use any additional fats.

6. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. To check if it's done, insert an instant-read thermometer into one of the thickest parts of the chicken. The internal temperature should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshness is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your dish. Always use high-quality, fresh ingredients where possible.
• Prepare the coating mix ahead of time: This saves you time when it’s mealtime. Simply store the dry ingredients in airtight containers for future use.
• Brush the baking sheet: Brushing with oil or spraying it lightly ensures that your chicken won’t stick to the pan and is easier to remove from the tray once cooked.

Final Thoughts

Oven-fried chicken can be a healthy, yet indulgent choice for those who like crispy fried chicken but prefer not to deep-fry. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect as a side dish or main course. Enjoy your meal!

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings and takes about 35 minutes to prepare from start to finish.