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Homemade KFC Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

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Introduction

Homemade KFC Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs bring the iconic crispy, savory flavor of classic fried chicken to your kitchen—without deep frying. These juicy thighs are coated in a seasoned crust that bakes to golden perfection, offering all the comfort of fast-food favorites with a lighter, home-cooked touch.

Origin

Inspired by Kentucky Fried Chicken’s famous seasoned coating, this oven-fried version adapts the flavors of Colonel Sanders’ legendary fried chicken using baking techniques. It reflects the growing demand for healthier home alternatives to restaurant classics.

Cultural Significance

KFC-style chicken is deeply rooted in American comfort food culture. Oven-fried adaptations symbolize modern cooking trends—preserving nostalgic flavors while embracing healthier preparation methods suitable for family meals and everyday dining.

Ingredients & Quantities (Serves 4)

Chicken

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Seasoned Coating

  • 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp white pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For Baking

  • 3 tbsp melted butter or oil spray

Optional Additions

  • Cornflake crumbs for extra crunch
  • Parmesan cheese in the coating
  • Smoked paprika for deeper flavor
  • Hot sauce in the buttermilk

Tips for Success

  • Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
  • Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for even crisping.
  • Spray or brush tops with butter to encourage browning.
  • Flip halfway through baking for uniform texture.

Instructions

  1. Combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and marinate.
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  3. Mix all seasoned coating ingredients in a bowl.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture.
  5. Arrange thighs skin-side up on the rack. Brush or spray with melted butter.
  6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping once, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Description

These oven-fried chicken thighs are crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. The seasoned crust delivers that familiar KFC-style flavor, while baking keeps the dish lighter and less greasy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per thigh)

  • Calories: 320–350 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10–12 g
  • Sodium: Moderate

Conclusion

Homemade KFC Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs prove that comfort food can be both nostalgic and practical. With simple ingredients and oven baking, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken any night of the week.

Recommendation

Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or biscuits for a complete comfort-food meal. Leftovers are excellent cold or reheated in the oven.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoy this dish by pairing it with fresh vegetables or salads and controlling portion sizes. Baking instead of frying allows you to savor classic fried chicken flavors while making a more mindful choice.

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