Homemade KFC-Style Oven-Baked Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the iconic taste of KFC-style chicken right to your kitchen, minus the deep fryer. The buttermilk marinade ensures tender, juicy meat, while the seasoned flour and cornstarch coating crisps up beautifully in the oven. With a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, each bite is bursting with savory and slightly spicy notes. Plus, baking on a wire rack allows air circulation, achieving that coveted crunch without excess oil.

Ingredients

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

• 8 pieces of chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or bone-in breasts)

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Cooking spray or oil

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

4. Arrange for Baking: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the rack, ensuring they are not touching.

5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken for 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep Time: 1 hour (including marination)

• Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a teaspoon of chili powder to the flour mixture for extra heat.

• Herb-Infused: Incorporate dried basil, rosemary, or sage into the seasoning blend for a different flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat within 1–2 months for best quality.

• Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a teaspoon of chili powder to the flour mixture for extra heat.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in pieces?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used. Adjust the cooking time to 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken helps tenderize the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate. While it's not strictly necessary, it enhances the overall taste and texture.

Can I bake the chicken without a wire rack?

Yes, you can place the chicken directly on a greased baking sheet. However, using a wire rack allows air circulation, resulting in a crispier coating.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, not pink.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the coating to set and enhances flavor.

What sides pair well with this chicken?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, and biscuits complement this dish perfectly.

Can I use skinless chicken pieces?

Skinless pieces can be used, but the skin adds flavor and helps retain moisture. If using skinless, consider adding a bit more oil to the coating.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring the cornstarch is certified gluten-free, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

How do I reheat leftover chicken to maintain crispiness?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

Conclusion

This homemade KFC-style oven-baked chicken offers the crispy, flavorful experience you crave, with less oil and effort. By marinating the chicken in buttermilk and coating it with a seasoned flour mixture, you achieve a crunchy exterior and juicy interior without the need for deep frying. It's a healthier, convenient alternative that doesn't skimp on taste. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe brings the comfort of classic fried chicken to your home kitchen.