Crispy Baked Fried Chicken: The Healthier Take on a Classic Favorite

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Prepare the Chicken:

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Then, coat the chicken evenly in the seasoned flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Bake the Chicken:

Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching. Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken to help it crisp up during baking.
Spray the chicken lightly with olive oil or cooking spray to enhance the crispiness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve:

Once the chicken is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve this crispy baked fried chicken with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It also pairs beautifully with homemade biscuits or macaroni and cheese.
Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Variants:

Spicy Baked Fried Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Coating: Add fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, basil, or parsley to the coating mixture for a fragrant twist.
Parmesan-Coated Fried Chicken: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the flour and cornmeal coating for a cheesy, extra-crispy texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for a gluten-free version of this crispy baked chicken.
FAQ:

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?
A: While bone-in, skin-on chicken gives the best crispy texture, you can use boneless, skinless pieces. Just reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it a few hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Q: Why is my chicken not as crispy as I expected?
A: Ensure that you coat the chicken evenly and that you spray it with oil before baking. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken in, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

This Crispy Baked Fried Chicken offers all the flavors and textures of traditional fried chicken but with fewer calories and less mess. Enjoy this healthier version of a classic comfort food with your favorite sides!