Delicious Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
Welcome, my dear foodies and cooking enthusiasts! Are you ready for a soul-warming southern-style feast? If so, then you’re in for a treat with my Fabulous Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe. Believe me when I say that this recipe is going to tantalize your taste buds and add a burst of flavor to your palette.
Southern-style cooking is all about comfort and warmth; it’s not just about the flavors but also the feeling that comes from sharing family-style dishes with loved ones. That’s why I decided to share this beloved southern-style oven fried chicken recipe with you all today. You’ll love how it combines the crispiness of traditional fried chicken with the ease of oven baking, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste.
In this recipe, we’ll be using some kitchen staples like flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder combined with oats, potato starch, and dried rosemary to create a flavorful coating for our juicy chicken legs. Trust me when I say that every bite will be packed with flavor; it’s like having a party for your mouth.
So gather around your loved ones and let the delicious aromas of this southern-style oven fried chicken fill your kitchen. It’s time to put on some good music and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I cannot describe enough how truly fabulous this Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken recipe is! Trust me, you’ll love it as much as I do.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the wonderful taste of this dish. The combination of onion powder, garlic powder, dried rosemary, and black pepper provides a wealth of tantalizing flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. You can savor every minute bite while the chicken legs are cooking to tender, juicy perfection.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it is oven-baked using canola oil cooking spray instead of deep-fried in cooking oil. This means you don’t have to worry about dealing with grease splatter or cleaning up a messy kitchen after a long day. Trust me when I say that the oven-fried method results in crispy chicken that’s just as satisfying as traditional fried chicken without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
This Southern-style oven-fried chicken recipe isn’t just crispy and delicious – it’s also quite easy to make. The ingredient list is straightforward, and the recipe steps are simple to follow. Anyone from beginner cooks to experienced pros can create juicy and crispy oven-baked chicken with ease.
This recipe isn’t just another fried chicken recipe; it’s a game changer for making healthy and delicious comfort food. Whether you’re looking for soul food or just craving some Southern-style fried chicken for your dinner table, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
In conclusion, you’re going to love this Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe for its mouthwatering flavors, oven-baked convenience, ease of preparation and healthier take on traditional Southern fried chicken. Give it a try today and thank me later!
Ingredient List
Before diving into the recipe instructions, let’s go through a list of ingredients you will need. Some of these ingredients may be available in your pantry, while others may require a quick trip to the grocery store.
Chicken
– 2-3 lbs chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on and bone-in)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Coating Mixture
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp powdered ginger
– ⅔ cup oats
– ½ cup potato starch
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
Cooking Spray
– Canola oil cooking spray
Make sure to check your pantry and shopping lists for these ingredients. Happy cooking!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to give life to our Fabulous Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe. I can guarantee that you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how easy and trouble-free this recipe is. Here’s how you do it:
Preheat the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (218 degrees C). This is essential because a well-preheated oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly.
Prep the Chicken
While the oven is warming up, it’s time to prep the chicken. Start by rinsing and drying the chicken legs or thighs with a cloth or paper towel. The next step is to place the chicken in a large ziplock bag with buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. Close the bag and shake it until all of the chicken is coated with buttermilk mixture.
Make Breading Coating
Now let’s make the breading for the chicken by combining 2 cups of oats, 1/4 cup of potato starch, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary and 1 teaspoon of powdered ginger in a bowl. After mixing thoroughly, add salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Bread the Chicken Legs
After making the breading mixture, take out one piece of chicken from the ziplock bag and place it into breading mixture. Press every part of chicken into coating mixture so they stick well on every part with breading mixture.
Place on Baking Sheet
Repeat this method with remaining thighs/cutlets until all pieces are breaded well with oats mixture ready to be placed on a baking sheet pre-sprayed with canola oil cooking spray.
Pour Cooking Oil
Drizzle your cooking oil over the tops of the breaded chicken thighs or legs. This oil will help the breading become crispy.
Bake in the Oven
Next, place your baking sheet in your preheated oven and let your chicken breasts bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until well cooked.
Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to serve and enjoy one of my favorite southern-style oven fried chicken recipes. You can pair it up with hot honey, roasted vegetables, creamy coleslaw, mac and cheese or mashed potatoes.
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to making delicious Southern-style oven fried chicken, there are many different ways you can switch up the ingredients to create unique and tasty variations. Here are a few substitutions and variations that you can try:
1. Flour Alternatives: Instead of regular all-purpose flour, you can use a combination of oats and potato starch for a gluten-free option. You can also try using cornmeal, coconut flour or almond flour to switch things up.
2. Spice Blend: The spice blend is what gives Southern-style oven fried chicken its signature flavor. To mix things up, consider swapping out some of the ingredients with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick. You could also add in some powdered ginger and dried rosemary to give your chicken an aromatic flavor profile.
3. Chicken Cuts: While this recipe calls for chicken legs, you can also use chicken breasts or thighs for a slightly different taste and texture. If you prefer boneless chicken meat, just adjust the baking time accordingly.
4. Oven Baked vs Deep Fried: Some people love the taste of deep-fried chicken, but it’s not always the healthiest option. That’s why this recipe opts for oven-baking instead of deep-frying. But if you’re looking for that crispy crunch that only deep-frying can provide, try breading your chicken with corn flakes before frying them in hot oil.
5. Honey Glaze: For those with a sweet tooth, consider adding a honey glaze to your oven fried Southern-style chicken after it’s cooked. Simply mix some honey with garlic powder and pour it over your freshly baked chicken before returning it to the oven to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. The result is a sticky-sweet coating that pairs perfectly with rice and cornbread.
No matter how you decide to customize this Southern-style oven fried chicken recipe, the result will be a delicious soul food meal that’s sure to satisfy. So, don’t be afraid to try out different ingredient combinations and experiment with different spice blends until you find the perfect flavor for you.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing southern-style oven fried chicken, there are endless possibilities to choose from. The deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior of this chicken are versatile enough to match with an array of sides, sauces, and drinks.
One of the most traditional ways to serve fried chicken is with classic southern sides such as macaroni and cheese, collard greens, candied yams or cornbread. These accompaniments provide a perfect complement to the rich flavor of the chicken. If you’re looking for something lighter, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables.
A drizzle of hot honey sauce can add a sweet and spicy kick that will take your chicken to the next level, or try dipping it in homemade buttermilk ranch dressing for a classic American touch. You can also pair this oven baked chicken with a lemon herb butter sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
Another great way to enjoy your southern-style oven fried chicken is in a hearty sandwich. You can make a delicious chicken sandwich by layering lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and mayonnaise on toasted buns. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that you can whip up quickly.
For a drink pairing, nothing beats an ice-cold beer! A crispy IPA pairs well with the richness of the chicken while a light lager helps cut through any spiciness. A refreshing glass of iced tea is another classic option that goes perfectly with this soul food.
In conclusion, Southern-style oven-fried chicken is fantastic because you can enjoy it solo or with various sides, flavors, and beverages according to your mood and preference. It’s classic comfort food that will satisfy your cravings every time!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, stored for later, and reheated without losing its crispy texture.
To make this recipe ahead of time, follow the instructions as directed but only bake the chicken until it’s partially cooked. Let the chicken cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the partially cooked chicken on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
Storing this oven fried chicken is easy and convenient! Once fully cooked and cooled completely at room temperature; store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it away from other strong smelling food items so that it retains its distinct aroma and flavor.
When reheating leftovers, use your convection oven or toaster oven so that the crusty exterior remains crispy. Microwave can work but may not produce crispy browned crusts. Before putting it in the oven, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to bring it to room temperature.. Place pieces of chicken on a baking sheet to reheat thoroughly throughout (about 10 -12 minutes).
With these tips, you can enjoy this delicious Southern-style oven fried chicken for days after making it! The crispy crust will stay perfect and perfectly ready for any meal plan.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making southern-style oven fried chicken, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure the perfect result every time. As a chef specializing in southern cuisine, I have developed a list of expert tips that can help you make the most delicious and crispy chicken you’ve ever tasted.
Tip 1: Use skin-on chicken
For the best flavor and texture, it’s important to use skin-on chicken pieces. The skin helps to lock in moisture and gives the chicken a crispy exterior. Plus, it adds an extra layer of flavor that you just can’t get with skinless chicken.
Tip 2: Don’t skimp on seasoning
To really bring out the flavors of your southern-style oven fried chicken, make sure to season both the flour mixture and the chicken itself generously with a blend of spices like onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and dried rosemary. This will ensure that every bite is packed with intense flavor.
Tip 3: Use potato starch or oats for extra crispiness
For an extra-crispy coating on your chicken, try using potato starch or oats instead of regular flour. These ingredients create a crunchy texture that is hard to resist. You can even combine them together for an ultra-crispy crust.
Tip 4: Preheat your oven
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before adding your chicken to the baking sheet. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent soggy chicken.
Tip 5: Use a cooking spray
To prevent sticking and ensure even browning, give your baking sheet a quick spray with a canola oil cooking spray before adding your chicken pieces.
Tip 6: Flip halfway through cooking
To ensure that both sides of your chicken are evenly browned and crispy, flip each piece over halfway through the baking process. This will help to ensure consistent results across all pieces.
By following these expert tips for making southern-style oven fried chicken, you can elevate your next weeknight meal or impress your dinner guests with an irresistible dish that captures the flavors of the South.
FAQ
As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I have received numerous questions from my clients and followers on my social media platforms regarding this fabulous Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken recipe. In this section, I will provide detailed answers to some of the frequently asked questions about this recipe to ensure that you have a stress-free experience while trying it out at home. So, let’s get started with some answers to your questions!
What is the difference between fried chicken and Southern fried chicken?
Southern fried chicken, a beloved dish, is made by coating chicken with a seasoned batter or flour and then frying it in a pan or deep-fryer. The seasoned coating adds a crispy texture to the outside of the chicken while also keeping the meat succulent and juicy.
What is the secret to making great fried chicken?
Southern-style cuisine is all about flavor and properly cut chicken is one of the secrets to achieving that. For both dark and white meat lovers, a whole chicken cut into pieces is the way to go. Next, prepare a marinade and be patient. Great flavor takes time. Don’t skimp on seasoning; it’s key to a memorable dish. When it comes time to cook, select the right cooking oil and maintain a consistent temperature. Lastly, skip the paper towels.
How to make Paula Deen’s fried chicken?
As a Southern cuisine expert, the first step to making a deliciously seasoned chicken dish is to blend your preferred seasonings and securely store them in an airtight container for future use. Once you’re ready to start cooking, beat your eggs with water in a medium-sized bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together flour and pepper, forming a dry yet flavorful coating for the chicken.
Next, take your chicken and first dip it in the egg mixture, ensuring that it is fully coated in the liquid. Then, proceed to cover the chicken generously with the flour mixture, making sure that every nook and cranny of the chicken is coated in the dry mix.
Grab a deep pot, fill it with oil and heat it up to 300 degrees, ensuring that the oil is piping hot before you start frying the chicken. Once satisfied with the temperature, carefully place your chicken in the pot and fry it until it reaches a crispy, golden brown finish.
Bottom Line
This Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe is a game-changer. It’s easy to make, flavorful, crispy, and healthy. I highly recommend this recipe to anyone who loves crispy and juicy chicken.
If you’re looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that reminds you of home, this recipe is the one for you. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether it be a family gathering, a picnic by the lake, or a cozy night in with your loved ones.
So don’t hesitate to give it a try! You won’t regret it. With this recipe at hand, you can recreate that soulful flavor of Southern fried chicken anytime you want. Deliciously crispy and irresistible, this oven-fried chicken will surely win over any crowd.
Thank you for joining me today! As we say in the South, “Keep on cooking!”
Fabulous Southern-Style Oven Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 chicken legs (or 3 chicken breasts, bone-in works just fine and is more economical than boneless)
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon potato starch
- 2 tablespoons oats
- 1 pinch powdered ginger (optional)
- canola oil cooking spray
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- For moistest results soak chicken pieces in a bowl of salted water for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Line baking tray with foil and spray lightly with oil.
- Grind dry ingredients in coffee grinder or with pestle and mortar.
- Pour into a bowl and add water little by little while stirring until a smooth runny paste is achieved. You may need more or less water.
- Remove chicken from soaking water, and pat dry if necessary.
- Dip into the rosemary coating until covered, and place on baking tray. This will seal in the juices.
- Bake at 365º for one hour.
- Once it's in, put your feet up for at least ten minutes, drink a glass of cold water, breathe deeply - and relax. Your chicken is safe.
- Suggestions: Serve with brown rice and greens, or if you have cooked breasts or thighs, then serve the chicken chopped into a salad with cucumbers, roma tomatoes and red onion, topped with Chimichurri sauce - a purée of cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and salt.