Extra-Crunchy Fried Chicken – Crispy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

This Extra-Crunchy Fried Chicken recipe delivers all the crispy, golden goodness you crave, with a juicy and tender inside. By using a light but flavorful coating and smart cooking techniques, you get the best of both worlds: a satisfyingly crunchy crust without the heaviness of traditional frying. Whether served for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this chicken is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunch Factor – A double coating ensures maximum crispiness in every bite.
Lightened-Up Crunch – Uses baking instead of deep frying for a healthier twist.
Flavor-Packed – Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices for rich taste.
Easy to Make – Simple steps that fit well into any busy schedule.

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup low-fat buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
• Cooking spray or 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.

Prepare the Breading Stations
In one bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.

Arrange and Spray
Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to promote crispiness.

Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Double Dip for Crunch – Repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps creates that extra-crispy crust.
• High Heat is Key – Baking at a high temperature ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.
• Use Panko – Whole wheat panko offers great texture and a healthier option than regular breadcrumbs.
• Rest Before Serving – Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking for juicier results.

Why This Recipe Works

By baking the chicken coated in a seasoned flour and double layer of panko breadcrumbs, you get a crunch that rivals deep frying but with less oil and fewer calories. The use of spices infuses the meat with flavor while keeping it light and satisfying. This method makes it easy to enjoy fried chicken anytime without the mess or guilt.

This Extra-Crunchy Fried Chicken is your go-to recipe when you want crispy, juicy chicken without the heaviness of traditional frying. It’s flavorful, simple to prepare, and delivers a satisfying crunch every time. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, it proves you don’t need deep frying to get that perfect golden crust.