If you’ve ever craved the iconic taste of KFC chicken but prefer a healthier option, this Baked “KFC” Chicken recipe is a must-try. The secret blend of seasonings gives you the authentic KFC flavor without the guilt of deep-frying. With a crispy coating and juicy chicken, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Baked “KFC” Chicken
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the classic KFC taste without the excess oil and calories.
- Crispy and Flavorful: The buttery coating ensures a crunchy texture and bold flavors.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for pleasing picky eaters with a familiar flavor profile.
- Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredient Notes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp Season-All season salt
- 3/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 – 2 lb chicken tenderloins
How to Make Baked “KFC” Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the thawed chicken tenderloins in a bowl of buttermilk and let them soak for 20–30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the butter into pieces and place them in a 9×13 pan to melt.
Step 3: Coat the Pan
Spread the melted butter in the pan, ensuring all areas are covered. Optionally, lightly spray the pan for even coating.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Mix the salt, Season-All seasoning, pepper, flour, and paprika in a bowl or resealable plastic bag.
Remove excess buttermilk from the chicken and coat each piece with the seasoning mix.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the seasoned chicken in the pan and bake for 20 minutes. Flip each piece and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 6: Enjoy
Serve your Baked “KFC” Chicken hot and crispy for a delightful dining experience.
Storage Options
To store any leftover chicken, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, you can freeze the cooked chicken and reheat it in the oven for a crispy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the seasonings are gluten-free.
- Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the seasoning mix for extra flavor.
- Buttermilk Substitute: Replace buttermilk with a mixture of milk and lemon juice for a tangy alternative.
What to Serve With Baked “KFC” Chicken
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Crisp Coleslaw
- Garlic Green Beans
- Sweet Cornbread
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken parts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly for larger pieces.
Is it necessary to soak the chicken in buttermilk?
Soaking the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step if preferred.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter adds flavor, you can substitute margarine for a similar cooking result.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
After preparing this Baked “KFC” Chicken, you can expect to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy seasoned coating that resembles the classic KFC flavor profile. The buttery richness complements the savory spices, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.
Baked 'KFC' Chicken
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp Season-All season salt
- 3/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 - 2 lb chicken tenderloins
Instructions
- Place the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk and let them soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Melt butter in a 9x13 pan in the preheated oven.
- Coat the pan with melted butter.
- Mix salt, season-all salt, pepper, flour, and paprika. Coat chicken with the seasoning.
- Arrange seasoned chicken in the pan and bake for 20 minutes. Flip and bake for another 20 minutes.
- Serve hot and crispy for a delicious meal.