Description
A simple, budget-friendly oven-fried chicken recipe that delivers shatteringly crisp skin and juicy meat without the hassle of deep frying. Using a secret mix of cornstarch and a wire rack, this method ensures perfect results in under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooking spray (optional, for rack)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
- In a large bowl or Ziploc bag, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and half of the spices. Add chicken, coat well, seal, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (30 minutes is better).
- In a shallow dish or clean Ziploc bag, whisk together flour, cornstarch, remaining spices, salt, and pepper until uniform.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Place in flour mixture and press firmly to create a thick, shaggy coating. Shake off loose flour.
- Line a large baking sheet with a wire rack. Lightly spray rack with cooking spray.
- Arrange chicken on the rack in a single layer, ensuring pieces are not touching. Lightly spray tops of chicken with oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping chicken halfway through at the 15-minute mark.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden brown and crisp.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Do not skip the cornstarch; it is crucial for crispiness. Ensure chicken is patted dry before marinating. Press the flour coating firmly onto the chicken to prevent it from falling off. If your oven runs hot, check at 20 minutes. For leftovers, reheat in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness; avoid the microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh per serving
- Calories: 380
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 28
Keywords: oven fried chicken, crispy chicken, budget dinner, weeknight meals, easy chicken recipe, cornstarch chicken, healthy fried chicken