Baked Fried Chicken

Place the chicken in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for extra tenderness.
Prepare the Coating:

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and onion powder.
Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off excess liquid. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
Bake the Chicken:

Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve:

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips