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#### Step-by-Step Recipe
**1. Marinate the Chicken**
– In a large bowl, combine the **buttermilk**, **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **smoked paprika**, and **cayenne pepper** (if using).
– Add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least **2 hours**, or up to overnight. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
**2. Prepare the Breading**
– In a shallow dish, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **paprika**.
– In a separate dish, combine the **panko breadcrumbs** with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper** for added texture.
**3. Coat the Chicken**
– Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**.
– Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres. Then, dip the coated chicken into the breadcrumbs, making sure it is evenly covered.
– Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for better airflow. This will help the chicken crisp up as it bakes.
**4. Bake the Chicken**
– Lightly spray the chicken with **cooking spray** to enhance the crispiness. Drizzle **olive oil** over the top of each piece of chicken.
– Bake in the preheated oven for **35-45 minutes**, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches **165°F (75°C)**. If you want extra crispiness, broil for an additional **2-3 minutes** at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
**5. Serve and Enjoy**
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. For a complete meal, add a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables on the side.
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#### Tips for Success
1. **Double Coat the Chicken**: For extra crunch, you can dip the chicken in the flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk, followed by another coat of flour and breadcrumbs. This double breading technique creates an even crispier crust.
2. **Don’t Skip the Buttermilk**: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding **1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar** to **1 cup of milk** and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3. **Use a Wire Rack**: If you have one, use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring a crispier result all around.
4. **Make it Spicy**: Add **hot sauce** or increase the **cayenne pepper** in the marinade for a spicy kick that complements the crispy coating.
5. **Rest the Chicken**: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep the juices locked in and prevent it from becoming dry.
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#### Serving Suggestions
– **Classic Sides**: Pair your baked fried chicken with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, mac and cheese, or baked beans.
– **Dipping Sauces**: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or hot sauce.
– **Fresh Vegetables**: Add a healthy touch by serving the chicken alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots.
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#### Storing and Reheating
– **Storage**: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to **3 days**.
– **Reheating**: To keep the crust crispy, reheat the chicken in a **400°F oven** for **10-15 minutes**, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer for a crispy result.
– **Freezing**: If you have leftover baked fried chicken, you can freeze it for up to **2 months**. Place the chicken on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at **375°F** for about **25-30 minutes**.
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#### Why This Recipe Stands Out
This **Baked Fried Chicken** recipe delivers all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken but with a healthier twist. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you reduce the amount of grease and fat, making it a guilt-free option for those who love the crispy texture of fried chicken but want to avoid the mess and excess calories. The combination of buttermilk marinade and seasoned breading creates a perfect balance of flavors, and the crispy, golden crust will have everyone reaching for seconds.
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#### Conclusion
If you’re craving crispy fried chicken but want a healthier and less greasy alternative, **Baked Fried Chicken** is the answer. This recipe is simple to make, delivers amazing flavor, and provides all the crunch you love from fried chicken, but without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this baked version will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy a crispy, satisfying meal without the mess or extra oil!
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