Homemade Oven-Baked KFC-Style Chicken

Quick Description: Crispy, juicy, and oven-baked—this KFC-style chicken delivers all the flavor without the fryer.​

🕒 Servings & Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2–12 hours marinating)

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour (excluding marinating)

• Servings: 4

• Dietary Info: Oven-baked, can be made gluten-free​

🛒 Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on or skinless)

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• Olive oil spray or melted butter​

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

2. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

3. Prepare Coating: In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

4. Coat Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.

5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil or brush with melted butter for added crispiness.

6. Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).​

💡 Notes

• Marinating: For best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight.

• Crispiness Tip: Using a wire rack on the baking sheet can help achieve a crispier texture by allowing air circulation.

• Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference.​

📝 Introduction

Craving that iconic KFC flavor without the guilt? This oven-baked version brings you the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken, minus the deep fryer. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a healthier take on a fast-food favorite.

📷 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Marinate Chicken: Soak chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours.

2. Prepare Coating: Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.

3. Coat Chicken: Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture.

4. Arrange on Sheet: Place coated chicken on a greased, parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.​

Tip: For extra crispiness, use a wire rack on the baking sheet.​

🧂 Ingredient Details & Substitutions

• Buttermilk: Tenderizes and adds flavor. Substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.

• Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Spices: Feel free to adjust spices to your taste.

• Olive Oil Spray: Helps achieve a crispy texture without deep frying.​

🍽️ Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

• Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or parsley to the flour mixture.

• Serving Ideas: Pair with coleslaw, mashed cauliflower, or a fresh green salad.​

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

• Make-Ahead: Marinate chicken overnight and prepare the flour mixture in advance for quicker assembly.​

🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Protein: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 600mg​

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.​

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but adjust cooking time to 25–30 minutes, as they cook faster than bone-in pieces.​

Q: How do I ensure the coating sticks well?
A: Pat the chicken dry before marinating and press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken.​

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.​

📝 Personal Notes

This recipe has been a family favorite in our household. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout, and the kids love it just as much. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s baking is simply irresistible!

💬 Share Your Thoughts

Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the comments below.

Enjoy your homemade oven-baked KFC-style chicken!