In search of the perfect fried chicken recipe that’s crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious? Look no further! We present to you the ultimate recipe for oven-fried buttermilk chicken. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving for more.
This recipe is a game-changer. It combines the golden and irresistible crunchiness of fried chicken with the healthier option of oven-baking. With a perfect blend of seasonings and the magic of buttermilk, each bite is packed with juicy tenderness and an explosion of flavors.
The secret to achieving that crave-worthy crispy crust lies in our carefully crafted blend of ingredients. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of bone-in chicken pieces
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- Vegetable oil for greasing
Oven-Fried Buttermilk Chicken Ingredients
Oven-Fried Buttermilk Chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The key to its crispy and flavorful coating lies in the marination process and the combination of ingredients used. Here are the main ingredients you will need:
– Chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
– Buttermilk
– All-purpose flour
– Paprika
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Cayenne pepper (optional for some extra heat)
The chicken pieces should be soaked in buttermilk for at least a few hours or overnight. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. The coating for the chicken is made by combining the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a separate bowl. The marinated chicken is then coated with the flour mixture, ensuring that it is well covered.
Once coated, the chicken pieces are placed on a baking sheet and baked in the oven at a high temperature until golden brown and crispy. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfying crunch, minus the excess oil and grease associated with traditional frying. Oven-fried buttermilk chicken is a perfect dish for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Preparing the Buttermilk Marinade
Preparing the Buttermilk Marinade
The buttermilk marinade is a key step in creating delicious and tender oven-fried chicken. To prepare the marinade, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of buttermilk
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.
Next, add your chicken pieces to the marinade. You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or chicken drumsticks for this recipe. If you prefer white meat, you can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. Stir the chicken pieces around in the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. The buttermilk marinade will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with delicious flavors.
Coating the Chicken with Flour Mixture
Coating the chicken with a flour mixture is a crucial step in making oven-fried buttermilk chicken. It helps create a crispy and flavorful outer layer while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside.
To start, you’ll need a mixture of all-purpose flour along with spices and seasonings. This can include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like thyme or oregano. The flour mixture adds a delicious layer of flavor to the chicken.
Before coating the chicken, it’s essential to pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures that the flour mixture adheres well to the chicken and results in a crispy coating.
Next, dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly. You can use a fork or tongs to handle the chicken and prevent your hands from getting too messy.
Once coated, gently shake off any excess flour and place the chicken on a prepared baking sheet. The flour coating will help create a golden-brown crust when baked in the oven.
Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to move on to the next step of the recipe, whether that’s baking or frying the chicken to perfection!
Baking the Chicken in the Oven
Baking the chicken in the oven is a healthier alternative to frying, as it requires less oil and retains more of the natural flavors and juices of the meat. To achieve crispy and delicious oven-fried buttermilk chicken, there are a few key steps to follow.
First, preheat the oven to the recommended temperature. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents the meat from becoming dry. While the oven is preheating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Next, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Dip each piece of chicken into a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings, making sure to coat the entire surface. Placing the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet, ensure that there is enough space between each piece to allow for even cooking and crispy results.
Last but not least, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for the recommended amount of time, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe level. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to seal in the juices and ensures a moist and flavorful result.
Serving the Oven-Fried Buttermilk Chicken
Once you have prepared the oven-fried buttermilk chicken, it is time to serve this delicious dish. There are several ways you can enjoy this crispy and flavorful chicken.
One option is to serve it as the main course for a family dinner. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat of the chicken will be a hit with everyone at the table.
If you are hosting a party or gathering, consider serving the oven-fried buttermilk chicken as finger food. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces or strips and serve it with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. Your guests will love the combination of flavors and the convenience of being able to snack on the chicken while socializing.
Another idea is to use the chicken in sandwiches or wraps. Slice the cooked chicken and layer it onto your favorite bread or tortilla, along with lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you desire. The crispy chicken adds a delicious crunch to the sandwich and makes for a satisfying meal.
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