Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthier: Southern-Style Oven-Baked Fried Chicken

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken – crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. However, traditional fried chicken often comes with a hefty dose of oil and calories, making it a less-than-ideal choice for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But fear not, because with a few clever tweaks, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of fried chicken without the guilt. Enter Southern-style oven-baked fried chicken – a healthier take on a classic favorite that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.

The Recipe:

Ingredients Needed :

• 3 spray(s) of cooking spray
• 1 pound(s) of uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts (four 4-oz pieces)
• 1/2 teaspoon of table salt, divided (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, divided (adjust to taste)
• 1/3 cup(s) of all-purpose flour
• 3 oz of low-fat buttermilk
• 1/2 cup(s) of cornflake crumbs

How To Make Southern Style Oven-Baked Fried Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and cayenne pepper to taste.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, and cayenne pepper. In separate bowls, place buttermilk and cornflake crumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk, and finally coat with cornflake crumbs.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips and Variations:

• Customize the seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the flour mixture for extra flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cumin can elevate the taste.
• Crispiness is key: For a crispier coating, lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with cooking spray before baking.
• Get creative with coatings: Experiment with different coatings like crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a unique twist.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Southern-style oven-baked fried chicken pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread.

Health Benefits:

• Reduced fat: By baking instead of frying, you significantly cut down on the amount of oil used, resulting in a healthier dish overall.
• Lean protein: Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, making this dish a nutritious option for satisfying your cravings.
• Whole grains: Cornflake crumbs add a crunchy texture to the chicken while also providing a serving of whole grains.

How to Store:

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

In Conclusion:

Southern-style oven-baked fried chicken offers all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional fried chicken with a fraction of the guilt. By making simple swaps and baking instead of frying, you can enjoy this classic dish without compromising your health goals. So go ahead, indulge in a crispy, flavorful bite – you deserve it!