Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

Craving that crispy, flavorful KFC chicken but don’t want to leave the house? You’re in luck, because this homemade version brings all the crunchy, seasoned goodness right to your kitchen—without the fryer! Trust me, once you make this, you’ll never look at fast food chicken the same way again. Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy, perfectly seasoned crust that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing!

Why You’ll Love Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about creating a moment that feels like a special treat. Whether you’re looking to impress family and friends or enjoy a delicious meal solo, this oven-baked KFC chicken is everything you love about the classic, but made right at home.

Versatile: Perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a casual dinner, game night, or holiday gathering, this chicken will fit right in.
Budget-Friendly: Forget the high price tag of takeout—this recipe uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have crispy chicken that tastes like it’s straight from the KFC kitchen.
Customizable: Want to kick up the heat? Add some chili powder. Want more flavor? Experiment with different seasonings to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s crispy, crunchy, juicy—everything you need to win over your guests (or just indulge in comfort food by yourself).

Ingredients in Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

Here’s the magic of this recipe: just a handful of ingredients combine to create a chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Let’s break it down:

Chicken Pieces: Bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts) provide the perfect mix of crispy skin and juicy meat.
Flour: This is the base for that golden, crispy coating.
Cornstarch: Helps the coating stay crispy, even after baking.
Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper create that signature KFC flavor.
Buttermilk: Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and ensures tender, moist meat.
Egg: A binder for the dry ingredients and a little extra crispiness when baked.
Vegetable Oil: A light brushing of oil helps achieve that fried-like finish in the oven.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken gets crispy and golden all over. A quick preheat is key to getting that perfect texture.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg and buttermilk together until smooth.

Prepare Your Baking Tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with vegetable oil. This ensures that your chicken doesn’t stick and helps achieve an even golden color.

Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture first, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating. The key to crispiness is making sure every inch is covered.

Arrange the Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow the heat to circulate and crisp up the coating.

Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through baking, flip the chicken to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy when it’s done.

Finishing Touches: Once your chicken is baked to crispy perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making each bite even more flavorful.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve your crispy homemade KFC chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy! Whether it’s mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple salad, this chicken is sure to be the star of your meal.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw complements the richness of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn makes the perfect addition to your comfort meal.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are great for soaking up any sauce or gravy you might want to add.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: After coating the chicken, let it sit on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before baking. This will help the coating set and get even crispier in the oven.
• No Buttermilk? No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Try Different Spices: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning mix to match your flavor preferences—add some cayenne pepper for a kick or rosemary for a fragrant twist.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, boneless chicken works well too! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster.
2. Can I freeze the chicken before baking?
   Absolutely! You can freeze the coated chicken pieces and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
3. What can I do to make the chicken even crunchier?
   Try double-coating the chicken! After dipping it in the buttermilk and flour, dip it again for an extra crispy crust.
4. Can I bake this chicken without oil?
   You can skip the oil, but it helps the chicken get that extra crispy texture. If you want to avoid oil, try using a cooking spray.
5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Can I make this in an air fryer?
   Yes! Air fryers work great for this recipe. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. How can I keep the chicken crispy after baking?
   After baking, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of a plate. This helps prevent steam from making the coating soggy.
8. What sides go well with this dish?
   Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or biscuits are all great options.
9. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
   Yes, you can use any cut of chicken you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and thickness.
10. Can I add spice to the coating?
    Definitely! You can add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even hot sauce to the seasoning mix for some extra heat.

Conclusion

There you have it—crispy, golden, oven-baked homemade KFC chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a comfort food masterpiece that rivals the fast food version. Enjoy the crispy crunch, juicy meat, and all the delicious flavors!

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