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Baked Fried Chicken Oven

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Enjoy golden, crunchy chicken with all the comfort of the classic dish—made lighter in the oven. Buttermilk ensures every piece is juicy, while a coating of seasoned flour and Parmesan creates a satisfyingly crisp crust. Just marinate, coat, bake, and flip once. Perfect for busy cooks or family gatherings, this dish delivers savory, cheesy flavor and tender meat without deep frying. Serve hot with your favorite sides for a cozy dinner or prepare ahead for effortless meal prep. Storage and reheating keep leftovers deliciously crisp, making this a staple for any occasion.

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A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created by Olivia Olivia
Last modified on Fri, 15 Aug 2025 02:40:24 GMT
A plate of baked fried chicken. Save
A plate of baked fried chicken. | cuisineandlife.com

This Baked Fried Chicken has been my go-to when a fried chicken craving hits but I want to keep dinnertime a little lighter. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender while a seasoned flour and parmesan coating gives a golden crunch straight from the oven. Minimal cleanup and easy ingredients mean it is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, no deep fryer or splattering oil required. Even when my kids are picky, this never fails to please everyone's appetite.

I first made this on a rainy Sunday when I wanted something hearty but not heavy and it was an instant family favorite. The first bite with that crispy coating was so good my husband asked for it again the very next week.

Ingredients

  • Chicken legs: They bake beautifully and stay moist through cooking
  • All purpose flour: Creates the crispy outer layer that mimics deep frying
  • Seasoned salt: Adds a balanced flavor base to the breading
  • Salt: Enhances overall taste without overpowering
  • Black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and balance
  • Paprika: Lends color and a mild smoky depth
  • Garlic powder: Brings a savory backbone to the flavor profile
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty rich flavor and helps create crispiness
  • Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps breading adhere

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a large bowl and fully cover it with buttermilk. Let it sit for at least thirty minutes. This locks in moisture and flavor before baking.
Mix the Coating:
Combine flour, seasoned salt, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder and parmesan cheese in a large bag or bowl. Mix until all ingredients are fully blended.
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to four hundred degrees to ensure it is hot enough for crisping the coating as soon as the chicken goes in.
Coat the Chicken:
Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk and place them into the flour mixture. Shake or turn the chicken to coat thoroughly. Each piece should be well covered with the mixture.
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and spray with oil or lightly brush with cooking oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the chicken pieces evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for thirty minutes. Flip each piece carefully and bake for another thirty minutes or until internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees. This ensures crispy outside and fully cooked juicy inside.
A plate of chicken with herbs on it.
A plate of chicken with herbs on it. | cuisineandlife.com

Parmesan is my quiet hero in this dish because it gives the crust a bump of savory flavor and turns deep golden in the oven. I will never forget the look on my niece’s face when she snuck the first crispy piece off the tray and ran off giggling before dinner was served.

Storage Tips

Let the chicken cool before refrigerating and store in an airtight container for up to three days. For best results reheat in a hot oven until the skin is crisp again and the chicken is warmed through. Avoid using the microwave to keep the crunchy texture intact.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of buttermilk mix regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit a few minutes. Chicken thighs or drumsticks work just as well and if you like a little extra kick toss some cayenne into the flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Pile these golden chicken pieces next to a big helping of mashed potatoes or next to fresh coleslaw for balance. They make a killer chicken sandwich with slaw and pickles or are perfect tucked beside baked beans and cornbread for a Southern style dinner.

A plate of chicken wings with herbs on them.
A plate of chicken wings with herbs on them. | cuisineandlife.com

Baked fried chicken is my lightened up take on the deeply rooted Southern tradition of fried chicken. Baking feels modern yet celebrates the cozy spirit of the original and brings all the family comfort to the table with a little less fuss.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why marinate chicken in buttermilk?

Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, infuses flavor, and helps the crispy coating adhere for a juicy result.

→ Can I use chicken breasts or thighs?

Yes, other cuts work well. Adjust baking times to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

→ How do I achieve a crispy coating in the oven?

Coat chicken thoroughly, bake at high heat, and flip halfway through for even crispness and golden color.

→ Can I substitute buttermilk?

Use milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if buttermilk isn't available for similar tenderizing effects.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm in a 350°F oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or classic cornbread for a hearty meal.

Baked Fried Chicken Oven

Oven-baked chicken with crispy Parmesan crust and juicy interior. Lighter than classic fried, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time
40 minutes
Cooking Time
60 minutes
Total Time Required
100 minutes
Created by Olivia: Olivia

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Perfect for Beginners

Style of Cuisine: Southern American

Serves: 4 How Many Servings (8 chicken legs)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients Needed

→ Chicken and Dairy

01 8 chicken legs (drumsticks), skin-on
02 1 cup buttermilk

→ Coating

03 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
05 1 teaspoon salt
06 1 teaspoon black pepper
07 1 teaspoon paprika
08 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ For Baking

10 Nonstick cooking spray or 2 tablespoons neutral oil

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Place chicken legs in a large bowl and pour over buttermilk until fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse with flavor.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl or food-safe bag, combine flour, seasoned salt, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasoning.

Step 03

Heat oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Spray generously with nonstick spray or brush with neutral oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.

Step 04

Remove marinated chicken legs from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Place each leg in the coating mixture and toss or shake until each piece is thoroughly and evenly coated.

Step 05

Place coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them so they do not touch. Optionally, set a wire rack on the sheet and arrange chicken on top for extra crispness.

Step 06

Transfer tray to middle rack. Bake for 30 minutes, then carefully flip each piece using tongs. Continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the exterior is golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).

Step 07

Remove chicken from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and finish the cooking process.

Helpful Hints

  1. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for best tenderness and flavor penetration.
  2. For optimal crispiness, use a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow heat circulation.
  3. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven to restore crunch. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
  4. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper to the flour blend.

Must-Have Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (optional, for crispier finish)
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Instant-read thermometer

Allergy Details

Check ingredient packaging for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
  • Contains milk (buttermilk, Parmesan cheese).
  • Contains wheat (all-purpose flour).

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

These nutrition figures are for guidance only and don’t replace advice from a medical professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 355
  • Fat Content: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 17 grams
  • Protein Content: 28 grams