Healthy Fried Chicken(Southern Fried Chicken)
A healthier take on Southern fried chicken with crispy cornflake coating and flavorful spices, perfect for family dinners or gatherings craving comfort food with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Coat a shallow metal pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
- Pour buttermilk into a shallow bowl and add chicken, turning to coat.
- Refrigerate chicken in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- On a plate, combine crushed corn flakes, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- One at a time, dip each side of the chicken into the cornflake mixture, pressing firmly to coat.
- Stir the mixture occasionally with a fork to keep seasoning evenly distributed.
- Place coated chicken on the prepared pan.
- Spray the chicken with non-stick spray, turning once to coat evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and juices run clear when pierced.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist on this classic dish, consider substituting almond milk for buttermilk and using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of corn flakes. To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Ensure an even coating by pressing the cornflake mixture firmly onto the chicken. If you're looking for alternative chicken recipes, check out "Nanny'S" Fried Chicken for a traditional take.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this healthy fried chicken with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch or pair it with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with mashed potatoes or cornbread. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with a light salad or browse more American recipes for inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Healthy Fried Chicken(Southern Fried Chicken) contains roughly 1039 calories, with 43g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (353% of the Daily Value), iron (207% of the Daily Value), and calcium (125% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 99g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
While skin-on chicken can add flavor and moisture, this recipe is designed for skinless chicken to keep it healthier. If you prefer skin-on, adjust cooking time as needed to ensure thorough cooking.
What can I use instead of corn flakes?
If you don't have corn flakes, crushed panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be excellent substitutes. They will provide a similar crunch while still adhering to the flavors of the spices used in the recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, you can add more cayenne pepper or incorporate hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade. Experimenting with different spices, like chili powder or blackening seasoning, can also enhance the heat.
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).