Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: buttermilk oven fried chicken! If you’ve ever craved that crispy, crunchy goodness without the guilt of deep-frying, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe is a game-changer. The buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a rich flavor that’s simply irresistible. I love that it’s baked, which makes it a healthier option while still delivering that finger-licking, golden-brown crunch we all adore. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to dish for family dinners or cozy nights in!
Ingredients List
Gather these ingredients to whip up the best buttermilk oven fried chicken you’ve ever tasted! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts, skin-on preferred for extra crispiness)
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko works great for that crunch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray (for a golden finish)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start, and don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to match your taste! The beauty of this recipe is in its flexibility, so feel free to get creative.
How to Prepare Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken
Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making buttermilk oven fried chicken! Follow these steps, and you’ll create a feast that’s sure to impress everyone. It’s simpler than you think, and the results are worth every minute.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First things first, you’ll want to mix together the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large bowl. This is where the magic happens! The spices will infuse the chicken with irresistible flavor while the buttermilk tenderizes it beautifully. Once mixed, add your chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but if you can, let it sit overnight. Trust me, the longer it soaks, the better it gets!
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
After your chicken has marinated, it’s time to get that crispy coating ready! In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and flour. You want a nice blend that’ll give you that crunch we all love. Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it in lightly to ensure it’s fully coated. This step is crucial, so take your time with it!
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (thank me later!). Place your breaded chicken pieces on the sheet, leaving a little space between them for airflow. For that extra crispiness, spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray. Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear, and oh, that aroma wafting through your kitchen is just heavenly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This buttermilk oven fried chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- It’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying, giving you that crispy texture without all the extra oil.
- The marinating process really enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken—trust me, you’ll notice the difference!
- It’s versatile! Pair it with a variety of sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Cleanup is a breeze with the parchment-lined baking sheet—no messy frying pans to deal with!
- Kids and adults alike can’t resist the crunchy coating and juicy meat, making it a family favorite.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; you can marinate ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to eat.
Tips for Success
To make sure your buttermilk oven fried chicken turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Marinating Time: While you can marinate the chicken for just 2 hours, I highly recommend letting it soak overnight if you can. This really enhances the flavor and makes the chicken so tender. Plus, it’s one less thing to do on the day you plan to serve it!
- Spice it Up: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Choice: For an extra crunchy coating, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They’ll give you that delightful crunch that makes this dish so addictive!
- Check for Doneness: Always make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer can be a lifesaver here!
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even juicier and more flavorful. Plus, it’s the perfect time to whip up a quick dipping sauce!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to serving up some seriously delicious buttermilk oven fried chicken that’ll impress everyone around your table!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of this delicious buttermilk oven fried chicken. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This recipe is packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal for any chicken lover. Enjoy the crispy goodness without the guilt, knowing you’ve got a nutritious option on your plate!
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken works just fine, but keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster. Just make sure to check for doneness before serving to ensure it’s cooked through.
What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and voilà—you’ve got yourself a homemade buttermilk!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! To make this buttermilk oven fried chicken gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. It’s just as delicious, and everyone can enjoy it!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. If you want to keep it crispy, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze buttermilk oven fried chicken?
Yes, you can! After baking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover buttermilk oven fried chicken properly is key to keeping that delicious crunch intact! First, make sure the chicken has completely cooled before you tuck it away. Place the pieces in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a lot left over, you can also wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a container to help preserve moisture.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that crispy coating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet. For best results, reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out! Alternatively, you can use an air fryer if you have one—just a few minutes at the same temperature will get them nice and crispy again.
And if you’re feeling extra fancy, consider serving the leftovers with a fresh dipping sauce or a side salad to elevate your meal. Enjoy your tasty chicken all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your buttermilk oven fried chicken all cooked up and looking golden brown, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it to create a complete and satisfying meal! Here are some of my favorite ideas that pair perfectly with that crispy chicken:
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the chicken. You can make it classic with cabbage and carrots or try adding some apples or raisins for a twist!
- Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes. They’re the perfect canvas for a drizzle of gravy or even some of that buttermilk sauce if you want to get fancy!
- Fresh Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette brings brightness to your plate. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and maybe a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor!
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a classic side that just screams comfort food. They’re great for sopping up any sauce or gravy you might have on your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition with a mix of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil and your favorite herbs before roasting for extra flavor!
- Macaroni and Cheese: For those who want to indulge, a creamy macaroni and cheese is a delightful side that pairs beautifully with that crispy chicken—talk about comfort food heaven!
These sides not only complement the flavors of the buttermilk oven fried chicken but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Mix and match to your heart’s content, and enjoy!
Drucken
Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Gesamtzeit: 155 minutes
- Ertrag: 4 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Glutenfrei
Beschreibung
This is a simple recipe for crispy buttermilk oven fried chicken.
Zutaten
- 4 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- Cooking spray
Anweisungen
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and flour.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off.
- Dredge chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray chicken with cooking spray for crispiness.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your preference.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 35 minutes
- Kategorie: Main Dish
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 piece
- Kalorien: 350
- Zucker: 2g
- Natrium: 600mg
- Fett: 15g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 3g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 25g
- Faser: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterin: 80mg
Keywords: buttermilk oven fried chicken
