Love fried chicken but hate the grease? Say hello to this oven-fried masterpiece! It’s crispy, crunchy, and packed with bold flavors – without the extra fat. Instead of deep-frying, this recipe uses ground flaxseed for a golden, satisfying crust while a blend of spices brings just the right amount of heat. The result? A guilt-free take on a comfort food classic that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Servings

Ingredients

1 whole 3-to 4-lb. free-range organic chicken (cut into serving pieces)
2 cups buttermilk
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1½ cups ground flaxseed
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground oregano
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp sea salt
Nonstick olive or coconut oil cooking spray

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Whisk the buttermilk and Dijon mustard in a bowl, then add the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes or up to two hours for deeper flavor.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400ºF and line a baking sheet with a silicone pad. On a plate, mix the flaxseed, spices, and salt. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shake off excess, and coat it in the spice mixture. Arrange on the baking sheet, mist with cooking spray, and cover with foil.
Bake for 40 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp up. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF before serving.

The Perfect Pairings

Crispy chicken deserves equally delicious sides! A classic pairing is a creamy coleslaw and roasted sweet potatoes for that perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the bold flavors beautifully. And if you’re a fan of dipping, try a homemade ranch or honey mustard sauce to take things up a notch.

🔥 Final Thoughts

Who says healthy can’t be delicious? This oven-fried chicken delivers all the crunch and flavor of the deep-fried version – without the extra oil. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply indulging in a crispy chicken craving, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!