If you’ve ever craved the irresistible crunch and flavor of KFC chicken but wanted a healthier, homemade version, you’re in luck. You don’t need a deep fryer or a secret spice lab to enjoy crispy, juicy, golden-brown chicken right from your own oven. With the right seasoning blend and cooking method, you can replicate that famous taste while cutting back on oil.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Baking chicken in the oven not only reduces the amount of oil used but also makes the process much easier and cleaner. There’s no splattering grease, and you can cook a large batch at once. Plus, the result is surprisingly close to fried chicken—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to whip up your oven-baked KFC-style chicken:
8 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts with skin-on for best crispiness)
2 cups buttermilk (for marinating)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
