Who says you need a deep fryer to get that iconic KFC crunch? With this Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven recipe, you can enjoy juicy, crispy chicken straight from your oven—no hot oil or fast food run required! This crave-worthy comfort food combines the secret herb and spice blend you love with the ease and health benefits of oven-baking. It’s been trending with home cooks for good reason—easy prep, nostalgic flavor, and family-friendly goodness that never fails.
Whether you’re recreating your favorite bucket night at home or looking for a healthier way to enjoy fried chicken, this Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven will absolutely hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven Recipe
- Crispy without deep frying – Get that signature crunch using your oven.
- Healthier than takeout – Baked, not fried = less oil, less guilt.
- Simple ingredients – Pantry staples come together for maximum flavor.
- Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Great for leftovers – Perfect for next-day lunches or chicken sandwiches.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven
- Chicken drumsticks or thighs
Juicy cuts that stay tender inside while crisping up on the outside. - Buttermilk
Tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor during the marinade. - All-purpose flour
Creates the base for that crispy coating. - Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs
Adds extra crunch and texture without deep-frying. - KFC-style spice blend
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and more for that unmistakable flavor. - Melted butter or cooking spray
Helps achieve a golden finish in the oven without using oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven
1. Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in a large bowl with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray.
3. Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix flour, crushed cornflakes, and your seasoning blend: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, mustard powder, black pepper, and cayenne for heat.
4. Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour-spice mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Bake the Chicken
Arrange the chicken on the greased rack. Lightly drizzle with melted butter or spray with oil. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
6. Let It Rest
Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it spicier: Add extra cayenne or chili powder to the coating.
- Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal instead of flour/cornflakes.
- Air fryer option: Use the same coating method and air fry at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Extra crunch: Double-dip the chicken—flour, then egg wash, then back in flour mixture.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store: Let chicken cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving—it softens the crust.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven, here are a few more comforting, homemade classics to try next:
- Easy Homemade Meatball Recipe – Juicy, tender meatballs that come together fast with pantry staples.
- Homemade Pizza Dough – The perfect base for family pizza night—soft, chewy, and easy to customize.
- Gluten-Free Pita Bread (Easy Homemade Recipe) – Light, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches, dips, or wraps—without the gluten.
These recipes are all beginner-friendly and packed with flavor, making them perfect additions to your weekly rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks?
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs or drumsticks work best for moisture and flavor.
What’s the secret to the crispy coating?
Cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs + oven baking on a rack helps air circulate and crisps the coating perfectly.
Is this really healthier than fried chicken?
Absolutely! You’re using significantly less oil, which reduces fat and calories while still getting a crunchy texture.
Can I skip the buttermilk marinade?
You can, but the buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and deepen flavor. If skipping, coat the chicken well in seasoning before breading.
Ready to ditch the drive-thru? This Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven is crispy, golden, and full of mouthwatering flavor—without the grease. It’s a healthier twist on a fast-food favorite, and it’s easy enough for beginner home cooks. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out in the comments!
For more comfort food classics and family favorites, be sure to explore more recipes on jadarecipes.com!
Homemade KFC Chicken in the Oven
Ingredients
- – 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- – 1 cup buttermilk
- – 1 tsp salt
- – ½ tsp black pepper
- – 1 cup all-purpose flour
- – 2 cups crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs
- – 1 tsp paprika
- – 1 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp onion powder
- – ½ tsp dried thyme
- – ½ tsp dried oregano
- – ½ tsp mustard powder
- – ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- – 2 tbsp melted butter or cooking spray
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, coat well, and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a greased wire rack on top.
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, crushed cornflakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, mustard powder, and cayenne.
- Remove chicken from marinade. Coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place chicken on the rack. Drizzle with melted butter or spray with oil.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
– Air fryer option: cook at 375°F for 25–30 mins, flipping halfway.
– Gluten-free? Use crushed gluten-free cereal and GF flour.