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Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven is crisp and easy.

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A healthier, oven-baked alternative to traditional fried chicken that captures the iconic crispy texture and savory spice blend of KFC using a buttermilk marinade and a seasoned flour coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (3 to 4 pounds), cut into pieces
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 3 teaspoons salt (divided)
  • 1.5 teaspoons black pepper (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika (divided)
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder (divided)
  • 1.5 teaspoons onion powder (divided)
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried thyme (divided)
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried basil (divided)
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Cooking oil (for greasing and drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, 2 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp basil, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Toss chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture until well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly with oil.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and the remaining coating spices (1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, 0.5 tsp garlic powder, 0.5 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp thyme, and 0.5 tsp basil).
  5. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture.
  6. Place chicken on the baking sheet with space between pieces. Drizzle the tops lightly with cooking oil.
  7. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, ensure the oven is fully preheated before putting the chicken in.
  • Marinating overnight provides the most tender and flavorful results.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; air circulation is key to a crispy exterior.
  • Using a wire rack set over the baking sheet can help the bottom stay crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: Homemade KFC Chicken, Oven Fried Chicken, Crispy Baked Chicken, Buttermilk Chicken Recipe

Find it online: https://www.mealsmell.com/homemade-kfc-chicken-in-the-oven-recipe/