Baked Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, this baked fried chicken is an easy alternative to traditional fried chicken. The chicken is coated in seasoned flour and baked until golden brown and crunchy. It is simple enough for beginners and perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds (900 g) chicken pieces, such as drumsticks, thighs, or chicken breasts
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Crispy Coating

• 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For Baking

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.

Place the chicken in a large bowl. Add the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Mix everything together so the chicken is well coated.

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 8 hours for extra flavor and tenderness.

2. Prepare the Coating

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. A wire rack helps hot air circulate around the chicken and makes the coating crispier.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.

Mix well.

3. Coat the Chicken

Remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let the excess drip off.

Place it into the seasoned flour.

Press the flour firmly onto the chicken so it is completely covered.

For an extra-crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour a second time.

Repeat with all the chicken pieces.

4. Add the Oil

Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking rack.

Drizzle or lightly brush the chicken with vegetable oil or melted butter. Make sure each piece gets a little oil. This helps the coating become golden and crispy in the oven.

5. Bake the Chicken

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.

Bake for approximately 35–45 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Carefully turn the chicken halfway through cooking and lightly brush the other side with a little more oil if needed.

Continue baking until the coating is golden brown and crispy.

The chicken is safely cooked when the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Easy Side Dish Ideas

Baked fried chicken goes well with:

• Mashed potatoes
• French fries
• Coleslaw
• Green beans
• Corn on the cob
• Macaroni and cheese
• Fresh salad
• Biscuits

Beginner Tips for Extra-Crispy Chicken

Use a wire rack: This allows hot air to circulate underneath the chicken and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Do not skip the baking powder: A small amount helps create a lighter, crispier coating.

Do not overcrowd the pan: Leave some space between the chicken pieces so they can cook and brown properly.

Use enough oil: Baked chicken needs a little oil to develop a crispy, golden coating.

Check the temperature: The safest way to know the chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part should reach 165°F (74°C).

Storage

Allow leftover chicken to cool before placing it in an airtight container.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat and keep the coating crispy, place the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer until hot and crisp again.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty: Easy

This Baked Fried Chicken is a great recipe for beginners because it uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps while still giving you crispy, flavorful chicken without traditional deep-frying.