Craving the crunch of fried chicken without the hassle of deep frying? Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken delivers that same golden, crispy coating with a fraction of the oil. Baked to perfection, this recipe gives you all the crispy goodness you love while keeping things simple and mess-free.
This method uses a combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes to create a flavorful, crunchy coating that locks in the juices of the chicken. The result? A satisfying bite with a crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress guests at any gathering.
Whether you’re making this for the family or just treating yourself to a comforting homemade meal, this oven-fried chicken is sure to be a hit. Let’s break down exactly how to make it happen.
What You’ll Need to Make This Crunchy Oven-Fried Chicken
While fried chicken is usually associated with deep-frying, this oven-baked version proves that you don’t need a pot of oil to achieve crispy perfection. Here’s what makes this dish stand out:
- Chicken Pieces – Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks work best for keeping the meat juicy while getting that crispy exterior. If you prefer boneless, just adjust the cooking time.
- Cornflakes or Panko Breadcrumbs – The secret to that crispy, crunchy crust. Cornflakes provide a light, airy crunch, while panko breadcrumbs give a more classic coating.
- Seasonings – Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper bring depth and bold flavor to every bite.
- Buttermilk or Egg Wash – This helps the breading stick to the chicken and adds a slight tang that complements the crispy coating.
How to Make Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better. If using buttermilk, soak the chicken for at least 30 minutes for extra tenderness.
- Make the Coating: Crush the cornflakes or mix the panko breadcrumbs with the seasonings in a shallow dish. This is where all the crunch and flavor come from!
- Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece in beaten egg or buttermilk, then press it into the seasoned coating, making sure every inch is covered.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate, helping everything crisp up evenly. Bake until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep the crust crispy. Serve it hot with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.
Ways to Make It Your Own
The best part about this recipe? You can tweak it to match your cravings! Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash for extra heat.
- Cheesy Crust – Mix in some grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs for a richer, saltier crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
- Lemon Herb Variation – Toss in some dried rosemary, thyme, or lemon zest for a bright, herby twist.
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Why This Oven-Fried Chicken Works Every Time
No one wants soggy oven-baked chicken, and this recipe ensures that never happens. Here’s why:
- Crispy Coating Without Frying – The combination of crushed cornflakes or panko with seasonings creates a golden, crunchy crust without the need for deep-frying.
- Juicy on the Inside – Baking at the right temperature keeps the chicken moist while allowing the coating to crisp up perfectly.
- Less Mess, More Flavor – Say goodbye to splattered oil—this method keeps things neat and easy while still delivering big flavors.
What to Serve with Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken
While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Here are some winning combinations:
- Creamy Coleslaw – The tangy crunch of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob – A simple yet satisfying side that complements the crispiness of the chicken.
- Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect alongside crispy chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative to regular fries, with a hint of natural sweetness.
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken
Equipment
- Baking Sheet For baking the chicken evenly
- Wire Rack Allows air circulation for an extra crispy crust
- Shallow Dish For coating the chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks or boneless if preferred
- 2 cups cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs crushed
- 1 cup buttermilk or egg wash for coating
- 1 teaspoon paprika adds smoky flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a wire rack.
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Dip the chicken in buttermilk or egg wash, then coat in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs.
- Place on the wire rack and bake for 35 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil before baking.
- Pair with honey mustard or ranch for dipping.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
This turned out amazing even on my first try!
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Can’t stop thinking about how good this was!