🐓 Buttermilk Oven-Fried Chicken 🐓

A lighter take on a classic! Juicy chicken marinated in tangy buttermilk, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and baked to crispy perfection.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4–8 hours marinating) | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4


Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Directions:

  1. 🥛 Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 4–8 hours for best results.
  2. 🍗 Prepare the Coating:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray.
    • In a shallow dish, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  3. 🧂 Coat the Chicken:
    • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated chicken on the prepared rack.
  4. 🔥 Bake the Chicken:
    • Spray the top of the chicken lightly with cooking spray to promote browning. Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. 🍽️ Serve:
    • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Savor every crispy, flavorful bite! 🌟