Homemade KFC-Style Oven-Baked Chicken
A healthier homemade version of KFC-style chicken, oven-baked to crispy perfection with a flavorful buttermilk marinade and seasoned flour coating.
- Prep Time: 1 hour (including marination)
- Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
8 pieces of chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or bone-in breasts)
2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking spray or oil
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Notes
- Increase cayenne pepper or add chili powder for extra spice.
- Add dried basil, rosemary, or sage for herb-infused variations.
- Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked chicken in a single layer, then transfer to freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes; broil last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
