Ret Soup
Introduction
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This baked fried chicken offers the crunchy, savory flavors you love with a healthier baking method, making it perfect for a special meal with your loved one.
Detailed Ingredients
600g chicken breast fillets
250ml buttermilk
1 egg
200g all-purpose flour
100g breadcrumbs
8g smoked paprika
5g garlic powder
5g onion powder
5g salt
3g ground black pepper
50ml olive oil spray
Prep Time
40 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Slice the chicken breast fillets into strips and place them in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and egg. Pour this mixture over the chicken strips, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
6. Arrange the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking tray. Lightly spray each strip with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
8. Serve the baked fried chicken with your choice of dipping sauce.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breast fillets into strips and place them in a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Pour this mixture over the chicken strips, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to seep in.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Dredge the Chicken
Take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides.
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Tray
Place the coated chicken strips on the lined baking tray. Make sure they are spaced out to allow air circulation. Lightly spray each strip with olive oil to promote a crisp texture while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, flipping the strips halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are evenly crisped and cooked through.
Step 8: Serve
Once the chicken is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Notes
Cooking Tip
For even crispier chicken, consider using a rack on the baking tray to allow for better airflow around the chicken strips.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the baked fried chicken with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage Information
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Dietary Adjustments
This recipe can be easily adjusted to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the baked fried chicken to cool completely before storing. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should be consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled chicken strips in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Baked fried chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
Serve the baked fried chicken with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
Side Dishes
Complement the dish with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a romantic touch, include heart-shaped garlic bread or a selection of seasonal vegetables.
Nutritional Information
Basic Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 2g
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken
You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option, or use plant-based chicken alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Buttermilk
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 250ml of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, allowing it to sit for about 5 minutes.
Breadcrumbs
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Flour
For a healthier alternative, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour.
Olive Oil Spray
If you prefer, you can use other cooking spray options or brush the chicken lightly with melted butter or coconut oil instead.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk and egg not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy end result.
Dredging
Coating the marinated chicken strips in a mixture of flour, breadcrumbs, and spices provides a crunchy texture once baked, mimicking the taste of traditional fried chicken.
Baking
Baking the chicken instead of frying significantly reduces the amount of oil used, making it a healthier option while still delivering a crispy exterior.
Flipping
Flipping the chicken strips halfway through the baking process ensures that both sides cook evenly and achieve a uniform crispness.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken wings. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
What dipping sauces pair well with baked fried chicken?
Popular options include honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli for those who enjoy a little heat.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and coat it just before baking for a quick meal.
Why is buttermilk used in this recipe?
Buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Conclusion
Baked fried chicken is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, making it an excellent choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Its crispy texture and savory flavor are sure to impress, while the simple preparation allows you to enjoy more time with your loved one. Elevate your celebration with this dish that combines comfort food with a touch of love.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables
Pair your baked fried chicken with a side of garlic parmesan roasted vegetables. Toss your favorite seasonal vegetables in olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs before roasting them until tender.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Complement your meal with creamy mashed potatoes, made with butter, cream, and a hint of garlic for added flavor. This classic side dish pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
Spicy Honey Dipping Sauce
For an exciting twist, create a spicy honey dipping sauce. Mix honey with hot sauce, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and heat alongside your crispy chicken.
Fresh Garden Salad
A refreshing garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a homemade vinaigrette adds a light and healthy touch to your meal.
Chocolate Fondue for Dessert
Cap off your romantic dinner with a chocolate fondue. Melt dark chocolate and serve with strawberries, banana slices, and marshmallows for dipping, creating a sweet ending to your Valentine’s Day feast.
