Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven 🍗✨

This Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven is a crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish that rivals your favorite fried chicken—without all the mess of deep frying! Marinated in buttermilk for extra tenderness and coated in a perfectly spiced flour mixture, this oven-baked version is easy to make and delivers that crave-worthy crunch. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or anytime you’re craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Homemade KFC Chicken step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy & Juicy : The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist while the flour coating gives it a golden, crunchy exterior.
2. Oven-Baked Simplicity : No frying means less oil, less mess, and healthier results without sacrificing flavor.
3. Customizable Spice Blend : Adjust the spices to make it mild or fiery depending on your taste.
4. Easy to Prep Ahead : Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for casual meals, gatherings, or satisfying your fast-food cravings at home.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs 🍗
• 1 cup buttermilk 🥛
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour 🥣
• 1 tsp paprika 🌶️
• 1 tsp garlic powder 🧄
• 1 tsp onion powder 🧅
• 1 tsp salt 🧂
• ½ tsp black pepper ⚫
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat ) 🌶️
• 1 tsp dried thyme 🌿
• 1 tsp dried oregano 🌿
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for crispiness ) 🫒

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken drumsticks or thighs in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
2. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours , or ideally overnight, to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour , paprika , garlic powder , onion powder , salt , black pepper , cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme , and dried oregano until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
2. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.
   • Tip : For extra crispiness, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture a second time.

Step 4: Arrange for Baking

1. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
2. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
2. Bake the chicken for 45–50 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) .
   • Optional : For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or fries.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Spices : Freshly ground spices provide the best flavor—avoid pre-ground spices if possible.
2. Double Dip for Extra Crunch : Double-dipping the chicken in buttermilk and flour creates an ultra-crispy coating.
3. Make Ahead : Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and tenderization.
4. Switch Up the Cuts : Use chicken wings, breasts, or a mix of cuts depending on your preference.
5. Add Smoke Flavor : Sprinkle smoked paprika into the flour mixture for a hint of smokiness reminiscent of fried chicken.

Perfect Pairings

This Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed Potatoes : Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal.
• Coleslaw : A crisp, tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the chicken.
• Biscuits : Pair with buttery biscuits or cornbread for a Southern-inspired feast.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Piece, Approx.)

(Based on 8 pieces)

• Calories : ~300 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~20g
• Fat : ~15g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven is a crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish that satisfies your fried chicken cravings without the hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner, a holiday meal, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on taste and texture. The combination of tender chicken, a golden crust, and a perfectly spiced coating creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is irresistible.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spices, adjust the flavors, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your chicken, marinate that buttermilk, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.