Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken: A Healthier Comfort Food Favorite

If you’re craving that golden, crunchy goodness of fried chicken but want to skip the deep fryer (or don’t have an air fryer) this oven-fried chicken recipe is just what you need. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and gives you that satisfying crispy coating without the extra grease. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp everything seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)

• 3 eggs

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) more as needed

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep

   
   

   Preheat your oven to 410°F (200°C). Leave a baking sheet inside the oven while preheating to heat up your baking sheet. This is crucial to creating crispier chicken.

   
   

2. Prepare the Coating Stations

   
   

   • In the first shallow bowl, add the flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

   • In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.

   • In the third bowl, pour the breadcrumbs and season with everything seasoning.

   
   

3. Coat the Chicken

   
   

   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Ensure chicken breasts are of common size and thickness. Pound chicken and cut into smaller pieces if necessary.

   • Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press lightly so the crumbs stick well.

   
   

4. Arrange and Add Butter

   
   

   Drizzle melted butter over the baking sheet. Place the coated chicken breasts on the baking sheet.

   
   

5. Bake to Perfection

   
   

   Bake on one side for 12 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip with a spatula to ensure the breading stays intact, and return to the oven for an additional 12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Finish each side on broil mode for 2-4 minutes until golden brown color is achieved. Monitor closely to ensure chicken does not burn.

   
   

6. Let Rest and Serve

   
   

   Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.

Serving Ideas:

Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite starch. Think mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can also use it for sandwiches or wraps!

Toss with your favorite sauce for an added touch (buffalo, bbq, hot honey, chipotle, you name it!)

This recipe brings all the savory, crispy texture of traditional fried chicken with a lighter, oven-baked twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a winning dish every time.