Perfectly Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken

Looking for a crispy, oven-baked chicken recipe that can be prepared in just 30 minutes and feeds four people perfectly? Look no further! This oven-fried chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. With minimal oil needed, it’s the healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken while still achieving that golden-crisp exterior we all love.

For this dish, you will need:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Time: 30 Minutes

Number of Servings: 4

To start with, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). While it's heating up, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside.

Next, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place two tablespoons of olive oil in a shallow dish or plate. Carefully coat each chicken thigh on both sides with the oil, ensuring even coverage. Then dip the oiled chicken thighs into the breadcrumb mix, pressing them gently to ensure an even coating.

After preparing the chicken pieces, arrange them skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up. If you have some extra breadcrumbs or want a bit more flavor, you can sprinkle a little over each piece before placing it on the sheet.

Once all the chicken is coated and arranged properly, bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures that the meat is fully cooked. You can check this by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone.

While your chicken is in the oven, you can prepare a side dish such as roasted vegetables or a simple salad. This will help to make mealtime more balanced and enjoyable for everyone at the table. For the chicken itself, once it's done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

This resting period is crucial because it allows the juices within the meat to redistribute, which means your final dish will be juicier and tastier when you cut into it. You can garnish with lemon wedges if desired but it’s not necessary as the flavor from the spices used in the coating will already add a burst of taste.

Health Benefits

Oven-fried chicken is healthier than deep-fried alternatives because less oil is required, and there's no need for any oil to be absorbed by the food during cooking. This method preserves more of the nutrients found in fresh chicken while enhancing its texture through a crunchy coating.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them properly in an airtight container inside the refrigerator within two days of preparation. For best results, consume within three to four days for optimal taste and texture. Freezing is also possible; however, note that freezing and thawing may alter the consistency slightly when reheated.

Reheating can be done via microwave or by placing in a preheated 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through thoroughly but do not overcook as this could dry out the chicken again. Always remember to reheat leftovers until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This crispy, oven-fried chicken recipe is a versatile addition to your meal planning repertoire. It's suitable for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions when you want something delicious but not overly complicated. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something healthier yet satisfying, this dish delivers both flavor and satisfaction.