Easy Oven-Fried Chicken
Easy Oven-Fried Chicken is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that brings the taste of fried chicken without the hassle of frying. Coated in a seasoned flour mixture and baked to perfection, it's ideal for family dinners or gatherings. A touch of paprika adds warmth, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425°.
- Melt shortening in a 13 x 9 1/2-inch pan.
- Mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a paper or plastic bag.
- Add chicken pieces to the bag and shake to coat.
- Place chicken skin-side down in the pan and bake for 20 minutes.
- Turn chicken pieces and bake for another 20 minutes or until tender.
- For barbecued oven chicken, omit the dry coating and baste with barbecue sauce, continuing to baste every 15 or 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the flour mixture. If you're out of shortening, you can use vegetable oil or olive oil as a substitute. To achieve a crispier texture, let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before placing it in the pan. You can also try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for a cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Easy Oven-Fried Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a comforting meal. It also pairs wonderfully with green beans or a fresh garden salad. For a different flavor experience, try the Oven Baked Barbecue Chicken variation by basting with barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain its crispy texture while ensuring it is warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Oven-Fried Chicken contains roughly 50 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1908mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces, but be mindful that cooking times may vary. Boneless cuts typically cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier than the suggested time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I do if I don't have paprika?
If you don't have paprika, you can substitute it with a mixture of chili powder and a pinch of sugar for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, smoked paprika can add a delightful smoky note. Experiment with other spices like cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Easy Oven-Fried Chicken gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that any additional seasonings are gluten-free as well. This will help maintain the texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).