easy baked fried chicken recipe perfect for college students on a budget
Are you a college student looking for budget-friendly meal options that are both delicious and simple? Look no further! This easy baked fried chicken recipe is not only affordable but also incredibly satisfying. You can whip up this dish without breaking the bank, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends or enjoy a comforting meal after a long day of classes.
With just a few basic ingredients, this baked fried chicken delivers on taste and crunch, all while being healthier than traditional fried chicken. You won’t need a deep fryer or any complicated cooking techniques; just your oven and a few simple kitchen tools. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that is perfect for any college student on a budget!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This will help the chicken cook evenly and get crispy.
- In a large bowl, pour in the buttermilk. Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge) to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Place the coated chicken pieces on the wire rack. This allows air circulation around the chicken, which helps it become crispy.
- Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each piece. This step is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust without deep frying.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly meal!
Why This Recipe Works for College Students
This easy baked fried chicken recipe is perfect for college students on a budget for several reasons. First, the ingredients are affordable and easy to find at any grocery store. Chicken thighs and drumsticks are typically less expensive than chicken breasts, making them a great choice for budget-conscious cooking.
Second, the recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on your studies instead of spending hours in the kitchen. You can marinate the chicken while doing homework or attending classes, making it a flexible meal option.
Finally, this baked fried chicken is versatile. You can pair it with various sides based on your budget and preferences. Whether you have some frozen veggies, rice, or a simple salad, this chicken dish can adapt to whatever you have on hand.
Tips for Perfect Baked Fried Chicken
To ensure your baked fried chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Marinate Longer: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness even further.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t Skip the Wire Rack: Cooking the chicken on a wire rack is essential for achieving that crispy texture. It allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, preventing sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spice mixture based on your preferences. Add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
This easy baked fried chicken is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with various sides. Here are some budget-friendly options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, adding freshness and texture to your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food, mashed potatoes are an excellent choice to soak up any juices from the chicken.
- Rice: Serve your chicken over a bed of rice for a filling meal that is easy to prepare.
- Vegetable Medley: Sautéed or roasted vegetables are a healthy and colorful addition that complements the richness of the chicken.
FAQs About Baked Fried Chicken
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require less cooking time. Make sure to check their internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
3. Can I freeze the baked fried chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool before placing it in an airtight container.
4. How do I store leftover baked fried chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
This easy baked fried chicken recipe is a must-try for any college student looking to enjoy a tasty, budget-friendly meal. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
