Baked Fried Chicken

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An Introduction to Baked Fried Chicken

If you’re craving the comforting taste of fried chicken but want a healthier twist, look no further than this Baked Fried Chicken recipe. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings all the flavors you love without the deep-frying fuss. With a crispy crust and juicy, tender chicken, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Fried Chicken recipe is a game-changer. Not only does it offer the delicious crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken, but it’s also baked, making it a healthier alternative. You’ll appreciate how moist and flavorful the chicken remains, thanks to a simple buttermilk soak, and the ease of preparation will have you making this dish again and again.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Gallon-size Ziploc bag (optional)
• Oven
• Cooking spray (optional)

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thirds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s Seasoned Salt)
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 stick butter (or 1/4 cup)
• Buttermilk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the thawed chicken strips in a bowl of buttermilk, cover, and let them soak for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. In a large Ziploc bag or bowl, combine the flour, salt, seasoned salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly.
4. Cut the butter into a few pieces and place it in a 9 x 13-inch pan. Melt the butter in the preheated oven.
5. Spread the melted butter around the bottom of the pan. If needed, lightly spray the pan with cooking spray to ensure there are no dry spots.
6. Shake the excess buttermilk off the chicken pieces, then completely coat each piece in the flour mixture. You can either shake them in the bag until coated or dip each piece in the bowl until coated.
7. Place each piece of chicken in the preheated pan. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn each piece over and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until cooked through (170 degrees F).

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the flour mixture for the best crispy texture.
• If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider adding more seasoning or experimenting with different spices like thyme or garlic powder.

Additional Tips and Variations

If garlic butter Ritz crackers are available, they can add a delightful twist to the coating. Otherwise, adding garlic powder to the flour mixture can enhance the flavor. Don’t hesitate to get creative with different spices to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.

Q: How can I ensure my chicken stays moist?
A: The buttermilk soak is key to keeping your chicken moist and tender.

Conclusion

We hope this Baked Fried Chicken recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen as it has in ours. It’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor in every bite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the recipe!

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