The Best Oven Baked Crispy Chicken
Try this recipe for the best oven-baked crispy chicken.
Try this recipe for the best oven-baked crispy chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- for the breading:
- for the brine:
- 6 chicken drumsticks and 2 thighs (bone-in skin-on) or 4 thighs and 4 drumsticks - see my below note on chicken quantities - you can use any combination of chicken pieces for this recipe, even bone-in, skin on breasts. we just prefer the darker meat, as it has more protein and way more flavor.
- 3 tablespoons sea salt - don't use table salt! table salt contai which doesn't work with brining.
- 1 tablespoon honey - honey adds a depth of flavor
- 1-2 quarts warm/room temp water - you want enough wate
- 1 cup almond meal flour - i used bob's red mill
- 2 teaspoons celtic sea salt
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast - i used bragg's nutritional yea
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
- Carbohydrate 0.32263499990079 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0762112499931831 g
- Fiber 0.187375005665238 g
- Protein 0.0768874999774393 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0137814999981051 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 (4g)
- Sodium 1162.91474999996 mg
- Sugar 0.135259994235551 g
- Trans Fat 0.0111149999975654 g
- Calories 2 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large stainless steel or glass bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons sea salt, 1 tablespoon honey, and 2 quarts warm water to create a brine.
- Place chicken drumsticks and thighs into the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove chicken from brine and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together almond meal, sea salt, nutritional yeast, thyme, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Dredge chicken in the seasoned breading until well-coated.
- Arrange chicken on the baking sheet, presentation side down.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then flip chicken and increase oven temperature to 425 degrees F.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
- If needed, broil for a few minutes to brown the skin further.
- Note: Baking times may vary depending on chicken size. Leftovers can be reheated in a 250-degree oven or broiled to crisp.
The Best Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like an impossible task. I'm constantly juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending to-do list. But let me tell you, this oven-baked crispy chicken recipe has become a lifesaver! It's so easy to make, even on my busiest nights, and the result is unbelievably crispy and flavorful chicken that the whole family loves. Forget greasy takeout – this is the perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and healthy.
The secret to this recipe's success lies in the brining process. Brining the chicken in a simple mixture of salt, honey, and water adds incredible moisture and flavor, resulting in juicy, tender chicken every time. And the almond flour breading? It creates a wonderfully crunchy coating without all the extra calories and fat found in traditional breading. The simple spice blend adds just the right amount of warmth and complexity without overwhelming the chicken's natural flavor. This recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious can, and should, coexist.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I often adapt it depending on what I have on hand and what my family's craving. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the breading for extra savory notes. Other times, I swap out the thyme for rosemary or oregano, depending on the season. The chicken is equally delicious served with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or even mashed potatoes. It's the ultimate blank canvas for your culinary creativity, providing a healthy and tasty foundation that can be easily tailored to suit your preferences.
Preparation is a breeze. The brining process takes minimal effort – simply mix the ingredients, submerge the chicken, and let it sit in the refrigerator while you tackle other tasks. While the chicken is brining, you can prep your sides, or even catch up on emails! Once the chicken is ready, the breading and baking process is quick and straightforward. The whole meal, from start to finish, can be completed in under an hour, which is a huge plus when time is of the essence.
Beyond its convenience, this oven-baked crispy chicken recipe is incredibly healthy. The almond flour breading provides a good source of fiber and healthy fats, while the chicken itself is packed with protein, essential for energy and muscle building. And because it's baked, not fried, this recipe is significantly lower in fat and calories than many traditional fried chicken recipes. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your cravings without compromising your health goals.
This recipe isn't just for weeknights; it's a fantastic choice for weekend gatherings too. I've served this chicken at countless family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always a hit. The crispy skin and juicy meat are irresistible, and the simple yet elegant presentation makes it perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation means that you can enjoy more time with your guests, instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fried chicken that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture, this oven-baked crispy chicken recipe is a must-try. It’s a recipe I've perfected over time, balancing ease of preparation with exceptional taste and health benefits. It has consistently impressed my family and friends, and I'm confident it will become a favorite in your household as well. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be amazed by how delicious and simple healthy eating can be!
From quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend feasts, this recipe's adaptability makes it a staple in my kitchen. The clean-up is minimal too! The baking sheet is easily wiped clean, and any excess breading simply brushes away. It's a recipe that caters to my busy lifestyle without sacrificing quality or taste. I highly recommend this recipe to any busy person who values a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it – you won't regret it!
