Ultimate Baked “Fried” Chicken 🍗🔥
(Crispy, juicy, and healthier than deep-fried—but just as delicious!)
🍗 Ingredients *(Serves 4-6)*
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3 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
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1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
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1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp paprika
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1 tbsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp onion powder
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1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
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1 tsp salt & black pepper
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp baking powder (extra crispiness!)
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Cooking spray or ¼ cup melted butter
🔥 Instructions *(Prep: 15 mins + Marinate: 2+ hrs | Bake: 45 mins)*
1️⃣ Marinate Chicken
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Soak chicken in buttermilk + hot sauce (if using) for at least 2 hours (overnight = best flavor).
2️⃣ Preheat & Prep
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet (for crispiness).
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Mix flour, spices, and baking powder in a shallow bowl.
3️⃣ Dredge Chicken
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Shake excess buttermilk off chicken, then coat in flour mixture.
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For extra crunch, dip back in buttermilk, then flour again (double-dredge).
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
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Place chicken on rack, spray with cooking spray (or drizzle melted butter).
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Bake 40-45 mins (flip halfway) until golden and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
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Broil 2-3 mins at the end for extra crispiness (watch closely!).
💡 Pro Tips
✅ Extra crispy? Replace ½ cup flour with cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs.
✅ No buttermilk? Use Greek yogurt thinned with water.
✅ Skinless chicken? Brush with mayonnaise before dredging for moisture.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
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Classic: Mashed potatoes, collard greens, and honey drizzle.
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Spicy: Serve with hot honey or buffalo sauce.
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Sandwich Style: On a bun with pickles and slaw.
“All the crunch of fried chicken, minus the mess!” 🏆
Want it faster? Use air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins, flipping halfway.