Name: The Best Oven Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or a mix); 2 cups buttermilk (for marinating); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp baking powder; Cooking spray or 2 tbsp oil (for coating)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the flavor and texture of fried chicken while being baked in the oven. It uses simple pantry ingredients, requires no special equipment, and avoids the oil splatter of stovetop frying. The chicken comes out perfectly crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside every time. Plus, it’s versatile—you can season it to suit your taste and pair it with nearly any side dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or a mix)
Buttermilk (for marinating)
All-purpose flour
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Baking powder (helps with crispiness)
Cooking spray or oil (for coating)

Directions

Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top.
In a shallow bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
Place coated chicken on the wire rack and spray lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil for crispiness.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with flour for an extra crunchy crust.
Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt or milk with a splash of vinegar.
Add shredded Parmesan cheese to the coating for extra flavor.
Try different seasoning blends, such as Cajun or Italian herbs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy. For longer storage, freeze baked chicken for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven until hot and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work well, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying out.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor, but you can substitute with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend or crushed gluten-free cornflakes.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken and avoid moving it too much while baking.

Can I make this recipe without a wire rack?

Yes, but the chicken may not get as crispy. Place it directly on a greased baking sheet and flip halfway through.

What temperature should the chicken be when done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and coat it just before baking.

How do I make it extra crispy?

Spray the coated chicken generously with cooking spray and bake at a high temperature on a wire rack.

Can I use skinless chicken?

Yes, but the skin adds extra crispiness and flavor. Skinless pieces will still be tasty but slightly less crunchy.

What sides go best with oven fried chicken?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, mac and cheese, or cornbread are all excellent pairings.

Conclusion

The Best Oven Fried Chicken gives you crispy, golden chicken without the hassle of deep frying. With its flavorful coating and tender, juicy meat, it’s a recipe that satisfies comfort food cravings while being easy enough for everyday cooking. Whether served with classic Southern sides or a simple salad, this oven-fried version is sure to become a family favorite.