Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
Why will you love this Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken recipe? It’s the perfect blend of crispy and juicy without the guilt of frying.
The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, creating incredible flavor, while the oven method keeps it healthier. I’m always amazed by how easy it’s to whip up. Just a little prep, and you can let the oven do the work!
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I promise it’ll become a favorite at your dinner table.
Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this!
Ingredients of Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken
When it comes to making Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken, the ingredients are super important. They’re not just food; they’re the magic that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.
And honestly, who doesn’t want to impress their family or friends with an amazing homemade dinner? The best part is that you probably have most of these ingredients sitting in your kitchen already.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and gather what we need for this delightful dish.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken, cut up (or your preferred chicken parts)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (or more if you like it spicy)
- 2 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Now, before you start cooking, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread—just toast it and crush it up.
It adds a personal touch, and you might even feel like a culinary genius. And don’t stress too much about the chicken; you can use breast, thighs, or even drumsticks based on what you prefer or have on hand.
The buttermilk is essential for that tender, juicy goodness, so don’t skip it. And if Tabasco isn’t your thing, consider swapping it out for another hot sauce or leaving it out completely.
Cooking should be fun and flexible, right? So, get ready to create some deliciousness!
How to Make Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients for our Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken, it’s time to get cooking! First things first, grab your 1 whole chicken and cut it up into pieces. You can use whatever parts you like best—breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or even wings if you’re feeling fancy.
Once you have your chicken ready, take a zip-top bag and toss in the 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk along with 1 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. This is where the magic starts, folks. Seal that bag up and give it a good shake to mix everything together. Now, you can let that chicken marinate for at least an hour, but if you really want to impress, let it soak overnight. Trust me, the longer it sits, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
While the chicken is luxuriating in its buttermilk bath, preheat your oven to a cozy 400 degrees. This is when you can spread 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil on a baking sheet to get it nice and ready for the chicken.
Next up, grab a mixing bowl and combine 2 1/2 cups of fresh breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper. This breadcrumb mixture is going to give your chicken that crunchy, golden crust we all adore.
Once the marinating time is up, take those chicken pieces from the buttermilk—don’t forget to let the excess drip off—and roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they’re well-coated. Place the coated chicken on the prepared sheet pan, and if you’re feeling generous, you can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Now, pop that pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the most irresistible aroma, and I guarantee your taste buds will be dancing in anticipation. Just a heads up, keep an eye on them as they bake; you want that perfect golden-brown color without any burnt bits.
Once they’re out, let them cool for a few moments before digging in. Enjoy your delicious creation, and don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a spicier kick, try adding cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. If you’re dairy-free, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk. You can also swap the parmesan for nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Want to add some crunch? Experiment with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs. For herbs, mix in oregano or paprika for a twist on flavor.
Just remember, each change brings a unique taste, so have fun experimenting!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken
Serving Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken can be a delightful experience, especially when you pair it with the right accompaniments.
I love to serve mine with creamy coleslaw for that crunch and tang. A side of buttery cornbread is another favorite; it perfectly soaks up the flavors.
For a lighter touch, I opt for roasted seasonal vegetables, bringing color and nutrition to the plate. Don’t forget a revitalizing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken!
Finally, a glass of sweet iced tea or lemonade rounds out the meal beautifully, making it a true comfort food experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To make the most of your Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken, I recommend paying attention to a few key details.
First, don’t skip the marinating step; it really tenderizes the chicken. If you can, let it soak overnight for maximum flavor.
When preparing your breadcrumb mixture, feel free to experiment by adding your favorite spices or herbs. For extra crunch, try using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Finally, check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety. Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
Enjoy your delicious, guilt-free fried chicken!