Ultimate Extra Crispy OvenFried Recipe for Smart Weeknights
Author:admin
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Description
Extra Crispy ovenfried chicken thighs quick wknights recipe crunchy skin juicy meat simple steps nofuss prep family favorite for busy weeknights
Ingredients
Scale
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lb)
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup plain yogurt thinned with 1/4 cup water)
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko (gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional, for savory depth)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If you’re brining, pat dry after the brine and proceed to preheating. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and set a rack over a rimmed baking sheet.
Set up a dredging station: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, breadcrumbs, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk (and egg if using) until smooth.
Dip each thigh first in the buttermilk mixture, letting the excess drip off, then roll in the crust mixture. Press lightly to help the coating cling, turning to coat all sides evenly.
Place the coated thighs on the rack-lined sheet. Brush or spray them with a light coat of olive oil or melted butter to encourage a golden crust.
Bake, about 25–30 minutes, flipping once around the 12–15 minute mark. You’re aiming for a deep, even golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For extra crisp, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully so they don’t burn. Let rest 5 minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.
Notes
Crackling crust with a juicy center, these extra crispy oven-fried chicken thighs are weeknight-friendly and crowd-pleasing, delivering crispiness without deep-frying.