Looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken? Oven-fried chicken might just be your new go-to recipe! This crispy, flavorful dish will satisfy all your fried chicken cravings without the mess and extra calories of deep frying. With a well-seasoned coating and tender, juicy meat, this oven-fried chicken will become a regular on your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started on making this delightful Oven Fried Chicken.
### Oven Fried Chicken
#### Ingredients:
– 8 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, breasts – bone-in for best flavor)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
#### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly for a crispier finish.
5. Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. Lightly coat the rack with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
6. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared rack, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
7. Lightly spray the top of the chicken pieces with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil. This will help the coating crisp up nicely in the oven.
8. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for optimal safety.
9. For extra crispy chicken, you can finish by broiling the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
10. Once done, remove the oven-fried chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, flavorful chicken.
11. Serve your oven-fried chicken hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the crunchy coating and tender meat that will have your family and guests coming back for more.
Oven-fried chicken offers the best of both worlds: the classic taste of fried chicken with a healthier twist. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this dish any day of the week. Plus, the convenience of baking in the oven means less cleanup compared to traditional frying. So, next time you’re craving crispy, golden chicken, give this recipe a try and savor the delightful flavors that will fill your home with warmth and joy.
