The Best Oven-Fried Chicken - Crispy, Juicy & Easy Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the crispy, golden crust of fried chicken, but many people shy away from deep-frying due to the mess, calories, and the need for constant attention while frying. If you’re looking for a healthier and less time-consuming alternative, oven-fried chicken is your new best friend. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to get that perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat with just a few simple ingredients and the magic of your oven. Trust us, this is the best oven-fried chicken you’ll ever make.

This recipe has all the flavor of traditional fried chicken, without the heavy grease or the need to stand over a hot pan. With the right coating and cooking techniques, you’ll enjoy a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing it for a casual gathering with friends, this oven-fried chicken is sure to impress.

What You’ll Need To make Oven-Fried Chicken

Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients and tools you need. This is a simple recipe, but having everything on hand will help the process go smoothly. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this delicious oven-fried chicken:

Ingredients:

Chicken pieces: You can use any part of the chicken, such as thighs, breasts, or drumsticks. Skin-on, bone-in pieces work best for this recipe, as they retain moisture while cooking and give you that perfect crispy skin.
Buttermilk: This is the secret to achieving tender, juicy chicken. The acidity of the buttermilk helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it extra tender. You can substitute with a mixture of regular milk and a splash of lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk.
All-purpose flour: This will form the base of your crispy coating. You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though the texture may vary.
Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mix helps create an extra crispy crust. It draws moisture from the chicken’s surface, making the coating crisp up better.
Seasonings: We’re keeping it simple with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and a little cayenne for heat. Adjust the seasonings to your liking for a more personalized flavor.
Olive oil or vegetable oil: A light brushing of oil is all you need to give the chicken that golden, crispy texture. You can use any oil with a high smoke point for this step, but olive oil is a great option for added flavor.
Baking sheet and rack: To help the heat circulate around the chicken and ensure it cooks evenly, place the chicken on a rack set over a baking sheet.

Tools:

Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken in the buttermilk.
Shallow dish or plate: For coating the chicken with the flour mixture.
Tongs or a spoon: For handling the chicken and transferring it to the baking sheet without making a mess.

With all of these ingredients and tools ready, you’re just a few steps away from making the best oven-fried chicken ever. Let’s move on to the next section where we show you how to make it.

How to Make Oven-Fried Chicken

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start making the BEST oven-fried chicken. Follow these simple steps to achieve that crispy, flavorful chicken everyone will rave about. Here’s a breakdown of the process, including the exact measurements for each ingredient:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This will help the coating stick better and ensure the skin gets crispy.
Place the chicken in a large bowl. Pour in 2 cups of buttermilk and make sure each piece is fully submerged. For added flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the buttermilk. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish or plate, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat), 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything together until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, take each piece out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the process and coat the chicken in the flour mixture twice. This double-dipping technique adds a great crunch!
Set the coated chicken aside on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray. Place a rack on top of the baking sheet. The rack will help elevate the chicken, allowing air to circulate around it for even cooking and extra crispiness.
Drizzle or spray a light layer of olive oil or vegetable oil over the chicken to help the crust turn golden brown and crisp up. If you’re using olive oil, about 2 tablespoons should be sufficient.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken on the rack, making sure each piece is not touching the others. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are golden and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Now your oven-fried chicken is ready to be served! It’s crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—everything you want in fried chicken, but without all the mess of deep frying.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving your oven-fried chicken, presentation is key. You want to make sure the chicken stays as crispy as possible, and there are a few tricks for doing so:

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the chicken with a side of your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy barbecue sauce. These sauces add extra flavor and make the meal more fun.
Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
For a more casual vibe, serve the chicken on a platter with a variety of sides like macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or even French fries.

Storage Tips:

For leftovers: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. To maintain its crispiness, store the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This will help prevent moisture from collecting at the bottom and making the coating soggy.
Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or cover it loosely with foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat your oven-fried chicken while keeping it crispy, place it back on a rack and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

If you’re freezing the chicken for later, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. Frozen, it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Mistakes to Avoid

When making oven-fried chicken, it’s easy to get excited and jump right into the cooking process, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly crispy and tender every time:

1. Skipping the Buttermilk Marinade

One of the key components to achieving juicy, flavorful chicken is marinating it in buttermilk. Skipping this step or not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to dry or bland meat. Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor, so be sure to give it the time it needs—30 minutes minimum, but overnight is ideal for the best results.

2. Not Patting the Chicken Dry

Before you dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, it’s essential to pat it dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the coating stick better and prevents excess moisture from affecting the crispiness. If the chicken is too wet, the flour won’t adhere as well, resulting in a less crispy crust.

3. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet

Placing the chicken pieces too close together on the baking sheet is a major mistake. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation around the chicken, which can lead to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Make sure to give each piece plenty of space, ideally placing them on a wire rack set above the baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate around the chicken for an even, crispy result.

4. Not Preheating the Oven

It’s tempting to just toss the chicken in the oven as soon as it’s ready, but failing to preheat the oven to the correct temperature can result in uneven cooking. Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken cooks at the optimal temperature, allowing the crust to crisp up properly. Don’t skip this step—set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat before baking the chicken.

5. Using the Wrong Cooking Temperature

Cooking at too low of a temperature can cause the chicken to become soggy, while cooking at too high of a temperature may result in a burnt crust with raw meat inside. Stick to 400°F (200°C) for the best results. This high temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, the crust gets crispy, and the inside stays juicy.

6. Forgetting to Flip the Chicken

To achieve even crispiness on both sides, make sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time. This will allow both the top and bottom to get golden brown and crispy. If you skip this step, the bottom might be soggy while the top gets overly crispy.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be on your way to making the best oven-fried chicken with a crispy coating and juicy meat every time!

Tips and Tricks

If you’re looking to take your oven-fried chicken to the next level, here are some expert tips and tricks to ensure you get the crispiest and most flavorful results:

1. Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness

For the crispiest coating, don’t just coat the chicken once—double-dip it! After the first coat of flour mixture, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat it in the flour mixture again. This creates a thicker, crunchier crust that will hold up beautifully during baking.

2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs

For an even crispier texture, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with the flour mixture. Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, helping to create a more textured and crisp crust. This trick adds an extra layer of crunch without altering the flavor.

3. Try Different Seasonings

Feel free to get creative with your seasoning blend. You can swap out the paprika and cayenne for ground mustard, Italian seasoning, or even curry powder for a unique flavor profile. If you prefer a smoky flavor, smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke will give your chicken a deep, rich taste.

4. Bake on a Rack

To achieve the crispiest oven-fried chicken, always cook it on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. The rack elevates the chicken, allowing hot air to circulate around the pieces, which results in an evenly crispy exterior. If you don’t have a rack, you can improvise by using a cooling rack or flipping the chicken halfway through baking.

5. Let the Chicken Rest

After baking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. If you serve the chicken immediately after baking, the juices will escape and leave the meat dry.

6. Use a Meat Thermometer

To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat. Using a thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking and guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making oven-fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Suggestions

Looking to customize your oven-fried chicken or make it even more special? Here are some suggestions for side dishes, variations, and ways to elevate the meal:

1. Add a Spicy Kick

If you like your chicken with a little more heat, consider spicing up the buttermilk marinade with hot sauce or sriracha. Just add 1-2 tablespoons to the buttermilk mixture for a subtle yet flavorful kick. For those who prefer a more intense heat, you can also sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the coating mix.

2. Create a Family-Style Meal

Serve your oven-fried chicken family-style by arranging it on a large platter. Surround it with an array of your favorite sides—such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a vibrant salad. This presentation makes for a delightful and communal meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

3. Try a Gluten-Free Version

If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, replace the buttermilk with a non-dairy option, such as almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar, to mimic the tangy effect of buttermilk. This gluten-free version will still provide the crispy crunch you love but without the gluten.

4. Serve with a Sweet Dip

While savory sauces like ranch or BBQ are always a hit, why not add a sweet component? Try serving your chicken with a sweet dip like honey mustard or maple syrup. The combination of crispy chicken with a touch of sweetness can be a crowd-pleaser, especially for kids or those with a sweet tooth.

5. Make it a Sandwich

Turn your crispy oven-fried chicken into a delicious sandwich! Serve the chicken on a toasted brioche bun with some fresh lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayonnaise or spicy aioli. You can also add some pickles for an extra tangy crunch. This transformation makes for a fun and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

6. Add an Asian Twist

For an Asian-inspired twist, try adding some soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the buttermilk marinade. You can also sprinkle the finished chicken with sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and texture. Pair with a side of steamed rice and a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

7. Prepare for a Crowd

This recipe is great for large gatherings! If you’re feeding a crowd, you can double or triple the recipe. The chicken can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F/90°C) while you bake in batches, ensuring all of your guests are served hot, crispy chicken at the same time.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the BEST oven-fried chicken:

Q: Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless chicken for this recipe. Just be aware that boneless chicken will cook faster than bone-in pieces, so reduce the baking time to 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance. You can marinate the chicken overnight and coat it with the flour mixture the next day before baking. If you want to bake it in advance, simply cook the chicken, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to crisp it up again.

Q: Can I deep fry the chicken instead of baking it?

While this recipe is designed for baking, you can deep fry the chicken if you prefer. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure to drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate after frying to remove excess oil.

Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy after baking?

To keep the chicken crispy after baking, allow it to rest on a wire rack rather than on a plate or paper towel. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, preventing moisture from collecting at the bottom and making the coating soggy.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Once the chicken has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described earlier.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about oven-fried chicken—its crispy, golden crust and juicy, tender meat make it a comforting meal that pleases just about everyone. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a weeknight treat, this recipe guarantees results that rival the deep-fried version without the extra calories or mess.

By following these steps and tips, you can recreate that crispy, flavorful fried chicken experience in the comfort of your own kitchen, using simple ingredients and a few easy techniques. From the perfect seasoning blend to the optimal baking temperature, every detail matters when it comes to achieving the perfect oven-fried chicken.

Remember, the key to success lies in the preparation: marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, using the right amount of seasoning, and baking at the correct temperature will give you the crispy crunch you crave. And with a few suggestions for variations, you can tailor the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

If you’ve been searching for a healthier alternative to deep-frying, or just want to make a chicken dinner that’s both easy and satisfying, this oven-fried chicken is the answer. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again—whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a weekend feast.

Now that you know how to make the BEST oven-fried chicken, why not give it a try? You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create a crispy, flavorful meal that everyone will love.