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KFC-Style Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken

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This KFC-style crispy oven-baked chicken features juicy, tender meat and a crunchy, flavorful coating—all without deep frying. Marinated in buttermilk and coated in seasoned flour, it’s a healthier take on a fast-food favorite.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour (plus marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Olive oil spray or 3 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Place chicken in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
  3. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  5. Arrange coated chicken on prepared baking sheet with space between pieces.
  6. Spray lightly with olive oil spray or brush with melted butter.
  7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  8. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for deeper flavor and juicier chicken.
  • Double-coat for extra crunch: dip coated chicken back into buttermilk, then flour again.
  • Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for extra crispiness.
  • Adjust cayenne and pepper to control heat level.
  • Great served with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/kfc-style-crispy-oven-baked-chicken/