Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven
Crispy, flavorful chicken, marinated and oven-baked with a delicious blend of savory herbs and spice.
Ingredients
→ Marinade
8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
240 ml buttermilk
→ Coating
190 g all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
0.5 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Olive oil spray or melted butter for finishing
Instructions
Place chicken drumsticks or thighs in a shallow dish and cover with buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly grease using oil or melted butter.
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir well until evenly blended.
Lift chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture for even coverage.
Arrange coated chicken on the prepared baking tray. Lightly spray with olive oil or brush with melted butter to enhance crispness. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and fully cooked.
Notes
Marinating the chicken overnight results in maximum tenderness and flavour absorption.