My family loves fried chicken, especially my mom’s recipe. Her recipe consists of chicken pieces marinated overnight in a mixture of calamansi juice (calamondin), soy sauce, sugar and 7-up and then fried. Along with pancit (noodles), her fried chicken was the popular dish to serve during birthdays and holidays.
This recipe is a healthier version of fried chicken; the chicken pieces are baked and not fried. Although it does not have the same crunchiness of fried chicken, these oven- fried pieces taste as good. One caution though is not to over bake the chicken otherwise it will come out dry. And of course these oven-fried chicken pieces taste better when they are eaten hot and fresh from the oven. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Oven-Fried Chicken
To achieve the best results with your oven-fried chicken, start by ensuring that your chicken pieces are of uniform size. This helps them cook evenly. If you have larger pieces, consider cutting them down to ensure they all finish cooking at the same time. Preheating your oven is key too; a hot oven helps to create that crispy exterior. A temperature of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit works well for this recipe. For added flavor, try seasoning the breadcrumbs or coating with a mix of herbs and spices that you enjoy. Garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper can add a nice kick. Using a wire rack on top of a baking sheet can help the heat circulate around the chicken, giving it that golden-brown color all around. Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
The beauty of this oven-fried chicken recipe is its versatility. The marinade is a key component, but you can tweak it based on what you have on hand. If calamansi juice is hard to find, lemon or lime juice can work in a pinch, though they may alter the flavor slightly. Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste. Instead of using 7-up, a splash of ginger ale can add a nice zing without losing the sweetness. For the breading, panko breadcrumbs give a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs can also do the trick. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices to the breading mix to make this dish your own.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Oven-fried chicken is quite versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with a side of creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch, or serve it alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a hearty meal. If you want to keep it lighter, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the chicken beautifully. For a touch of Asian flair, consider making a side of stir-fried vegetables or even some fried rice. Leftover chicken can also be used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps for lunch the next day. When serving, remember to garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Don’t forget to set out some dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
Using skinless chicken is totally fine, but keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. If you go skinless, you might want to marinate the chicken a bit longer or add extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you want to swap out butter, margarine works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or coconut oil to get that nice coating.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It should stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days, and you can reheat it in the oven to keep it crispy.
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the flour mixture ahead of time. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it, but try to cook it within a day for the best taste.
What should I serve with oven-fried chicken?
Oven-fried chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside some buttery corn or your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor.
Oven-Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3 lbs chicken parts I used a mixture of thighs and legs
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425°F. Melt butter in 13x9-inch pan in oven.
- In shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt and pepper. Coat chicken with flour mixture. Place chicken, skin sides down, in pan.
- Bake uncovered 30 minutes. Turn chicken; bake about 30 minutes longer or until juice is clear when thickest part is cut to bone (170°F for breasts; 180°F for thighs and legs).
Notes
Nutrition
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