This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic fried chicken, delivering a crispy and flavorful dish that's baked to perfection.
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
Letting the chicken marinate for a longer time enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Overnight marination yields the best results for flavor infusion.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated to achieve even cooking.
In another bowl, mix the flour, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Sifting the flour mixture can help achieve a smoother coating.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture.
Press the chicken gently into the flour mixture to ensure an even coating.
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Allowing the coating to set helps it adhere better during baking.
Melt the butter and drizzle it over the chicken pieces.
Drizzling butter enhances the golden color and crispiness of the chicken.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve the crispy oven-fried chicken hot with your favorite sides.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added touch of freshness.