Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Season the chicken legs with salt and pepper, then place them in the buttermilk mixture. Ensure all pieces are well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Set a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. For extra crunch, you can dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
- Place the coated chicken legs on the prepared wire rack. Spray lightly with olive oil spray or brush with melted butter. This will help achieve a golden and crispy exterior.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). There’s no need to turn the pieces, but you can halfway through cooking for even browning if you like.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates in the buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
- Crispiness: The olive oil spray or melted butter is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
- Baking on a Wire Rack: Cooking the chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring it gets crispy all around without needing to flip the pieces.
Enjoy the deliciousness of fried chicken with a fraction of the fuss and fat. This oven-fried chicken legs recipe promises to deliver all the flavor and texture you crave, making it a perfect dish for any day of the week.