Why You’ll Love This Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
When you try this oven fried chicken recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The crispy, golden-brown coating gets everyone excited, and the juicy chicken inside keeps them coming back for more.
I love that it’s healthier than traditional frying, yet still delivers that satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s so simple to make! I can whip it up on busy weeknights or impress guests at dinner parties.
The aroma fills the house, making it hard to resist. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why I keep this recipe on repeat. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Oven Fried Chicken
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and satisfying meal, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For this Oven Fried Chicken recipe, you’ll want to gather a few key components that come together to create that crispy exterior and juicy interior we all crave.
Trust me, once you see how easy it’s to gather these ingredients, you’ll be tempted to make this dish over and over again. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to get started.
Here’s your shopping list:
- 3 lbs chicken pieces, skin removed
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon spicy seasoning (if desired)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 dash pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 2 egg whites, beaten
- 1 cup plain nonfat yogurt
- 1 cup flour
Now, let’s talk about a couple of considerations regarding these ingredients. You can customize this recipe based on your taste preferences.
For instance, if you like a bit of heat, go ahead and add more spicy seasoning; if garlic is your jam, toss in an extra sprinkle.
And don’t stress if you don’t have nonfat yogurt on hand; any plain yogurt will do just fine. I’ve even used Greek yogurt in a pinch, and it turned out just as tasty—though my friends still tease me about the “yogurt incident” from last time.
Just remember, the goal is to create a mouthwatering meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, so get creative with what you have!
How to Make Oven Fried Chicken
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to jump into the fun part—making that scrumptious Oven Fried Chicken. Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees. While that’s warming up, grab a large bowl and combine 2 cups of breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon of spicy seasoning (if you’re feeling adventurous), 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, a dash of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of celery salt. This is where the magic starts; the aroma from these spices will have your taste buds tingling with anticipation.
Next up, let’s prepare the wet mixture. In another bowl, whisk together 2 beaten egg whites and 1 cup of plain nonfat yogurt until it’s nice and smooth. Feel free to channel your inner chef with some vigorous whisking; it’s a great way to burn off some of those extra calories before the feast.
Now, here comes the slightly messy part—take each piece of your 3 lbs of chicken (skin removed, of course) and roll it first in 1 cup of flour. You want to give it a good coat, but don’t be shy; a little mess adds character to the cooking process. Next, dip the floured chicken into the yogurt mixture and then roll it in the breadcrumb mix. Make sure to get it nice and covered; no one wants a bare chicken piece, right?
Once all your chicken is coated and looking fabulous, spray a 9×13 oven dish with Pam to prevent any sticking. Lay the chicken pieces in the dish, and give them a light spritz with Pam again. It’s like giving them a little spa treatment before they hit the oven.
Pop that dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 40 minutes to 1 1/2 hours. Yep, I know that’s quite the range, but it depends on your altitude and the size of your chicken pieces. Just keep an eye on them; when the juices run clear and aren’t pink, you’ll know they’re ready for their big reveal.
And trust me, the wait will be worth it—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your family will be wondering what’s cooking!
Oven Fried Chicken Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Oven Fried Chicken, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. Swap out the yogurt for buttermilk or a dairy-free alternative to suit your diet.
If you want extra crunch, add crushed cornflakes to your breadcrumb mixture. Experiment with different spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor.
You can even use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a juicier result. Don’t be afraid to get creative; the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Additional Tips & Notes
To achieve the best results with your oven fried chicken, it’s important to pay attention to a few key details.
First, make sure your chicken pieces are evenly coated for consistent flavor and texture. I recommend letting the coated chicken rest for about 15 minutes before baking; this helps the breading adhere better.
If you prefer extra crunch, try adding crushed cornflakes to your breadcrumb mixture.
Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it can vary with different ovens.
Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to guarantee juicy, tender meat.
Enjoy your delicious creation!