Juicy Fake Fried Chicken

When I think of comfort food, Juicy Fake Fried Chicken always comes to mind. It’s that dish that can instantly turn a rough day into something special, a delicious reminder of home. I remember the first time I tried to recreate that crispy, juicy chicken I loved so much. I wanted to achieve that perfect crunch without the guilt, and that’s how this recipe was born. With just a few simple ingredients, I found a way to enjoy a classic without all the fuss of frying. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends with minimal effort!

What You Need for Juicy Fake Fried Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Juicy Fake Fried Chicken, simplicity is key. The beauty of this dish lies in how common ingredients work in harmony to create a mouthwatering chicken that everyone will love. From the tangy flavor of buttermilk to the crispy flour coating, each element plays a vital role in the final dish. Let’s dive into the key players.

• Non-fat buttermilk (1/2 cup): This is essential for marinating the chicken, infusing it with moisture and flavor. It helps to tenderize the meat while providing that classic buttermilk taste.
• Dijon mustard (1 1/2 tablespoons): This adds a touch of sharpness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must-have for adding aromatic richness, garlic brings warmth and a savory note to the chicken.
• Hot sauce (2 teaspoons): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this ingredient can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
• Split chicken breasts (2 to 2 1/2 pounds): The star of the dish! You can use bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference.
• Flour (1 cup): The coating that makes the chicken crispy. I prefer using white whole wheat for added nutrition.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): This spice adds a beautiful color and a mild sweetness to the seasoning mix.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): A fantastic herb that complements chicken beautifully.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): This helps the coating become light and crispy during baking.
• Kosher or sea salt (1/8 teaspoon): Essential for flavoring the chicken properly.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a slight kick to the seasoning mix, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Juicy Fake Fried Chicken

Creating your own Juicy Fake Fried Chicken is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s get started!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F. This high temperature helps achieve that golden-brown finish that we all love.
2. In a wide and shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and hot sauce. This tangy marinade will coat your chicken beautifully, ensuring it stays juicy.
3. Add your chicken breasts to the marinade. Make sure to coat it well on both sides. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes to absorb all that flavor.
4. While the chicken is soaking up those delicious flavors, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, thyme, baking powder, salt, and pepper. This is your seasoned flour that will give the chicken its crispy exterior.
6. Transfer the seasoned flour to a bowl with an airtight lid. Take two pieces of chicken at a time and add them to the flour. Seal the lid and give it a good shake to coat the chicken thoroughly.
7. Remove the chicken, shaking off any excess flour. Place it on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This step ensures that the chicken doesn’t get too heavy with flour.
8. Using cooking spray or a brush, coat the top and sides of the chicken with a light layer of oil. This will help it crisp up nicely in the oven.
9. Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook the chicken for 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken.
10. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist when you cut into it.

Variations to Try

If you want to mix things up with Juicy Fake Fried Chicken, there are countless variations you can try. Here are a few suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity.

• Herb-infused coating: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to your seasoned flour for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper into the flour mixture for a spicier version of the chicken.
• Extra crispy: Double dip the chicken by coating it in the buttermilk mixture again after the first flour coating and then putting it back in the flour for a thicker crust.
• Oven-fried style: If you’re looking for even less oil, try using an air fryer instead of baking; this gives a similar crispy texture with a fraction of the oil.
• Sweet and spicy: Mix a bit of honey into the hot sauce for a sweet and spicy glaze; brush it on toward the end of baking for a caramelized finish.

Perfect Matches for Juicy Fake Fried Chicken

Serving Juicy Fake Fried Chicken is all about creating a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Here are some great pairing ideas that can enhance your dining experience:

• Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken, adding a refreshing contrast.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, making them a perfect side dish.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness to your plate.
• Green beans: Sautéed or steamed green beans can bring a healthy touch and vibrant color to your meal.
• Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are great for soaking up any extra sauce or gravy!
• BBQ sauce: Serve it alongside your favorite homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce for dipping.
• Seasonal salad: Add a light salad with seasonal vegetables to provide a refreshing balance.
• Comfortable gatherings: This dish is perfect for family get-togethers, game days, or potluck dinners.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Juicy Fake Fried Chicken is not just a healthier take on a classic; it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its crispy coating and juicy meat, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making it yourself. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is, making it perfect for any occasion!

Juicy Fake Fried Chicken

Craving crispy, juicy chicken without the guilt? Juicy Fake Fried Chicken is your answer! This easy weeknight dinner is baked to perfection, delivering the classic flavors you love. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and tender meat, making it a dish you'll want to make again and again!

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Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup Non-fat buttermilk OR 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice mixed with 1/2 cup of 1 percent milk
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons Hot sauce
• 2 to 2 1/2 pounds Split chicken breasts bone-in, skin removed, optional boneless
• 1 cup Flour (we used white whole wheat)
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon Kosher or sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
• In a wide and shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Dijon mustard, garlic, and hot sauce. Add chicken and flip to coat on both sides.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Whisk the flour, paprika, thyme, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
• Place the seasoned flour in a bowl with an airtight lid. Add the chicken 2 pieces at a time and shake with the lid on. Remove the chicken, shake off any excess flour, and place it on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Coat the top and sides of the chicken with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Bake the chicken until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, 40 to 50 minutes.

Notes

• Bone-in or boneless: You can use either depending on your preference. Both yield delicious results!
• Photography: The recipe has evolved over time, and both versions are equally delightful!

Keyword baked chicken dinner, Easy Comfort Food, Healthy Fried Chicken, Juicy Chicken Recipe

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.