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Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven

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Crispy oven-baked chicken inspired by classic KFC-style flavor, marinated in buttermilk and coated with seasoned flour before baking to golden, crunchy perfection.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks or chicken thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken drumsticks or thighs in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them.
  2. Ensure the chicken is fully coated, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  4. In a shallow bowl mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess buttermilk to drip off.
  6. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
  7. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking tray with space between them.
  8. Drizzle or brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter to help the coating crisp.
  9. Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.
  10. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight provides the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Adding 2 tablespoons cornstarch to the flour mixture creates a crispier crust.
  • Use a wire rack on the baking tray for better air circulation and even crisping.
  • Adjust spices such as cayenne pepper to increase heat if desired.
  • Chicken tenders can be used instead of drumsticks with a shorter baking time.
  • Lightly oiling the coating helps achieve a golden crunchy texture.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pieces
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 640 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg