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Crispy Baked Chicken Recipe 5 Easy Steps for Perfect Fried Taste

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This crispy baked chicken recipe delivers a golden, crunchy crust and juicy, flavorful meat without the mess of frying. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice as substitute)
  • 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs (recommended Kikkoman brand)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of buttermilk into a bowl. Add half the salt and pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the oven rack in the middle.
  3. Mix the coating: In a second bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, remaining salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour and breadcrumb mix, pressing lightly to adhere. Place coated pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  5. Lightly brush the coated chicken with olive oil or melted butter.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden and crisp.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a wire rack for even crisping and to avoid soggy bottoms. For extra crunch, double coat by dipping back into buttermilk and coating again. If chicken isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to prevent burning. Do not overcrowd the pan. Let chicken rest before serving to lock in juices. For gluten-free, substitute flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. For dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or almond milk with lemon juice instead of buttermilk.

Nutrition

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