Description:
Indulge in the flavors of fried chicken without the guilt! This healthy baked fried chicken recipe uses a light coating to achieve that crispy texture while baking it in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Method:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken on the wire rack and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed veggies!
Variations & Tips:
- Flavor Boost: Add your favorite spices to the flour mixture, such as cayenne, lemon zest, or dried herbs.
- Baking Tip: To get an even crispier texture, flip the chicken halfway through baking.
- Serve with: This chicken goes well with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a tangy dipping sauce.
Conclusion:
This healthy baked fried chicken recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor and healthiness, allowing you to enjoy your favorite comfort food guilt-free. Make it for a family dinner or a weekend treat!