Baked Fried Chicken Oven Style (Printer-Friendly)

Oven-baked chicken with crispy Parmesan coating, tangy marinade, and satisfying crunch. Simple, flavorful, and lighter.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 8 chicken legs
02 - 2 cups buttermilk

→ Breading

03 - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 1 tablespoon paprika
08 - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
09 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ For Baking

10 - Cooking oil spray or 2 tablespoons neutral oil, for greasing

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Place chicken legs in a large bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes to retain moisture and enhance tenderness.
02 - Combine flour, seasoned salt, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl or resealable bag. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
03 - Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) for a hot environment that promotes a crunchy coating.
04 - Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Place pieces in flour mixture and toss or shake until evenly coated on all sides.
05 - Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Spray generously with cooking oil spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking and encourage browning.
06 - Place coated chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes on the middle rack.
07 - Using tongs, carefully flip each chicken leg to ensure even browning. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
08 - Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps maintain juiciness and allows flavors to meld.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Marinating in buttermilk not only infuses flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken, resulting in a juicy and succulent texture.
02 - A wire rack set over the baking sheet can improve airflow and ensure maximum crispiness in the coating.
03 - Baking reduces excess fat compared to deep frying while delivering classic flavor and texture.