Merlin'S Fried Chicken
Crispy, oven‑baked fried chicken with a simple paprika‑salt coating that delivers a golden crust and juicy interior—perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Combine 1/2 cup all‑purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a clean plastic or paper bag and shake to mix.
- Place chicken pieces in the bag, shaking to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking pan and bake for 55 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy coating, let the coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes before baking. You can substitute the paprika with cayenne pepper for a spicier kick, or use gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Merlin's Fried Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with Jan'S Hashbrown Casserole for a comforting feast. Consider adding a fresh garden salad to balance the meal or serving it alongside Cream Chicken Over Egg Noodles for a delightful variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F 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 Merlin'S Fried Chicken contains roughly 107 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1923mg per serving (84% 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 skinless chicken pieces for this recipe?
Yes, skinless chicken pieces can be used, but they may not achieve the same level of crispiness as skin-on pieces. If using skinless chicken, consider increasing the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through properly.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this fried chicken healthier, try baking it on a wire rack set over the baking pan to allow excess fat to drip away. You can also use less shortening or opt for a heart-healthy oil, and bake instead of frying to reduce calories.
What dipping sauces go well with this fried chicken?
Merlin's Fried Chicken pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Try classic options like honey mustard or barbecue sauce. For a zesty twist, consider serving with a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy ranch dressing to complement the flavors.
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).