Description

This Homemade KFC-style Chicken is oven-baked to crispy perfection, offering the beloved taste and texture of classic fried chicken without the deep frying. Juicy on the inside with a crispy, seasoned exterior, it’s a healthier twist on the fast food favorite.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

8 chicken drumsticks or thighs

1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp dried thyme

½ tsp dried basil

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

¼ tsp cayenne (optional)

Olive oil spray or melted butter

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Instructions

Place chicken drumsticks or thighs in a dish and pour in buttermilk. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
Take the chicken out of the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring a nice, even layer on each piece.
Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil or brush each piece with melted butter for a crispy finish.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Notes

For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
If using chicken breasts, be mindful of the cooking time, as it may be shorter than for drumsticks or thighs.
This recipe can be air-fried at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes for an even crispier texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg