Best Easy Southern Baked Chicken Recipe

Southern baked chicken seasoned with savory spices and roasted until golden and juicy is a healthy, high protein family dinner. This simple chicken recipe is a lighter alternative to fried that doesn't sacrifice flavor.

Cook 50 min Difficulty EASY 265 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • bone-in skin-on chicken pieces (legs and thighs preferred) 2.5 lbs
  • buttermilk 0.5 cup
  • all-purpose flour 0.33 cup
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • paprika 2 tsp
  • garlic powder 1 tsp
  • onion powder 1 tsp
  • dried thyme 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 5 g 7%
Protein 37 g 56%
Fat 11 g 37%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor.

  3. 3

    In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.

  4. 4

    Lift each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and coat evenly with the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

  5. 5

    Arrange chicken on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping midway, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the skin turns golden and crisp.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What’s the key ingredient in this Southern baked chicken recipe?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are the star of this recipe, delivering both juicy texture and classic Southern flavor. The buttermilk marinade in combination with a savory blend of spices—like paprika and thyme—are essential for authentic taste and tenderness.
Q. How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy and doesn’t dry out in the oven?
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk before baking helps retain moisture, and keeping the skin on protects the meat from drying. Baking at 425°F allows the skin to crisp up while the inside remains juicy. Bake until the meat reaches 165°F for optimal tenderness.
Q. What’s the best way to achieve a golden, flavorful crust without frying?
Dredging the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture and drizzling lightly with olive oil gives a crispy, golden crust during oven-roasting. Flipping the chicken halfway through ensures even browning and helps prevent sogginess.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving contain?
Each 180g serving contains about 265 kcal and delivers approximately 37g of protein. Protein accounts for over half (56%) of total calories, making this a nutritious, high-protein meal option with moderate fat and low carbohydrates.
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