Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This will help the chicken cook evenly and become crispy.
- In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken drumsticks and thighs, making sure they are completely coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the flour to the chicken. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the seasoned flour.
- Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared wire rack on the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, resulting in a crispy texture.
- Lightly spray the top of the chicken pieces with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of oil over them. This will help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken will be golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Serve the Southern Oven “Unfried” Chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese. It’s a healthier twist on traditional fried chicken, with all the flavor and crunch you love.
This Southern Oven “Unfried” Chicken recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken without the need for deep frying. The buttermilk marinade ensures tender and juicy meat, while the seasoned flour coating creates a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken or simply want to try a new twist on a classic dish, this oven-baked version won’t disappoint. Enjoy the taste of the South with this delicious and comforting meal.
