If you’ve ever craved that iconic, crispy KFC-style chicken but wanted to skip the deep fryer and the guilt, this Baked “KFC” Chicken recipe will blow you away. By baking instead of frying, you get the same golden crunch and delicious flavor with far fewer calories, making it a healthier but still indulgent treat.
The tender, juicy chicken soaks up the rich buttermilk, while the seasoning blend provides the perfect harmony of spice and savor. Whether you’re making a family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a game-day snack, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and finger-lickin’ good!
Ingredients :
Here’s everything you need for the perfect crispy baked chicken:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp Season-All seasoning salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika (for that classic flavor and color)
- 1 cup buttermilk (makes the chicken incredibly tender and juicy)
- 1/4 cup butter (to help the coating crisp up in the oven)
- 1 1/2 – 2 lbs chicken tenderloins (or substitute chicken breasts cut into strips)
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the thawed chicken breast tenderloins in a bowl or shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are fully submerged. Buttermilk is a secret weapon for juicy chicken; its mild acidity breaks down the fibers in the meat while adding a subtle tang.
Let the chicken soak for 20-30 minutes. If you have extra time, you can let the chicken marinate for up to an hour in the fridge. This allows the buttermilk to infuse even more flavor and tenderize the meat further.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Melt the Butter
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Take a 9×13 baking dish and cut 1/4 cup of butter (about half a stick) into smaller pieces. Place the butter in the pan and slide it into the oven while it’s preheating. Allow the butter to melt completely—this should only take a few minutes. Watch carefully to avoid browning or burning.
Once melted, carefully remove the pan and tilt it so the melted butter spreads evenly across the bottom. If needed, lightly spray the edges with cooking spray to prevent any sticking. This butter layer helps give the chicken its crisp texture and a rich flavor, mimicking the results of frying.
Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mix
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, Season-All, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. If you prefer, you can use a large resealable plastic bag instead of a bowl for easy coating later.
- Pro Tip: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste! Add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat or a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. One at a time, coat each tenderloin completely in the flour mixture. Press the seasoning onto the chicken to make sure it adheres well. If using a plastic bag, place a few pieces of chicken in at a time, seal the bag, and shake vigorously.
- Pro Tip: For extra crunch, you can double-dip the chicken—first in the flour, then back in the buttermilk, and finally in the flour again.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Pan
Place each coated chicken tenderloin into the prepared baking dish with the melted butter. Space the pieces evenly so they don’t overlap, as this helps the coating crisp up beautifully.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the dish and flip each piece of chicken using tongs. This ensures even browning on both sides and helps lock in moisture. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F for perfect doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Your baked “KFC” chicken is ready to shine! Serve it hot and crispy, paired with your favorite sides:
- Classic Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw balances the richness of the chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: For that traditional Southern comfort meal feel.
- Corn on the Cob: Simple, buttery, and sweet—perfect alongside crispy chicken.
- Honey Butter Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits brushed with honey butter are an irresistible pairing.
This dish is also great for dipping! Serve with sauces like:
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- Barbecue sauce
- Spicy sriracha mayo
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the buttermilk: It’s the key to tender, juicy chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Use a wire rack: If you prefer even more crispiness, place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate underneath the chicken as it bakes.
- Reheating: To keep leftovers crispy, reheat the chicken in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Conclusion :
This Baked “KFC” Chicken recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy a healthier version of everyone’s fast-food favorite without compromising on flavor or crunch. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. With a crispy, golden coating and tender, flavorful meat, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Once you try this baked version, you’ll never go back to frying. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy crispy, irresistible chicken that’s truly finger-lickin’ good!
