Oven Fried Bisquick Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Oven Fried Bisquick Chicken is a beloved comfort food, cherished by families for its perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. This recipe, originating from a classic Bisquick box over three decades ago, has stood the test of time due to its simplicity, affordability, and delectable flavor. It offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken by baking instead of deep-frying, while still achieving a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. The secret to its irresistible texture lies in the combination of Bisquick, butter, and carefully controlled oven baking, which ensures even cooking and a golden-brown finish. This dish is versatile enough to serve for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even special occasions when you want to impress with minimal effort. The following comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, providing tips, nutritional insights, and suggestions to customize the flavor profile to match your preferences. As it’s featured on Love With Recipes, a trusted platform for food enthusiasts, this recipe is designed for home cooks seeking delicious, reliable, and straightforward solutions for their poultry cravings.

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Needed Equipment

• Oven (conventional or convection)
• 13 x 9-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe baking pan
• Mixing bowls (preferably two, for dry and wet ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen tongs or a fork (for turning chicken)
• Cooking thermometer (to verify internal temperature)
• Silicone spatula or spoon (for mixing)
• Aluminum foil or baking parchment (optional, for easier cleanup)
• Basting brush (optional, for butter application)

Tags

• Chicken
• Baked
• Comfort Food
• Family Favorite
• Quick & Easy
• Oven-Baked
• High Protein
• Budget-Friendly
• Kid-Friendly

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 3 servings, with each serving consisting of one chicken piece. For larger gatherings or family meals, it can be scaled easily by increasing the number of chicken pieces and adjusting baking times accordingly.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as easy, suitable for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. The steps are straightforward, requiring basic kitchen skills such as measuring, coating, and oven handling. The minimal ingredient list and simple techniques make it accessible for anyone seeking a comforting homemade meal without complicated procedures.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for omnivores and those following a standard diet. It is not vegan or vegetarian due to the chicken and butter. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine or oil, and ensure your Bisquick or alternative coating mix is dairy-free.

Course

Main Course / Entrée

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). Proper preheating is crucial as it ensures the oven reaches the desired temperature, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Place your baking dish, preferably a 13 x 9-inch dish, inside the oven while it preheats. This ensures the butter melts evenly when added, creating a flavorful base for the chicken to crisp up in.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Once the oven reaches 425°F, carefully remove the baking dish using oven mitts. Pour the melted butter into the dish and swirl to coat the bottom evenly. The butter not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a golden, crispy crust on the chicken. Allow the dish to sit for a minute to ensure the butter stays hot, enhancing the browning process.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the dry mixture. This step is vital to ensure each piece of chicken is coated with a balanced blend of flavors and that the coating adheres properly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Pieces

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which promotes better adhesion of the coating. Dip each piece into the dry mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Turn the chicken to cover all sides completely. For a thicker crust, you may repeat the coating process or press the coating onto the chicken firmly.

Step 5: Arrange Chicken in the Baking Dish

Using tongs or a fork, carefully place the coated chicken pieces skin-side down into the hot butter in the baking dish. Arrange them with space between each piece to allow proper air circulation, which is essential for even browning and crisping. The skin side down initially helps render some of the fat and ensures the skin crisps up nicely.

Step 6: Bake and Flip

Place the dish back into the oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the coating will develop a lovely golden color. After 35 minutes, carefully use tongs to flip each piece over to promote even crisping on all sides. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The total baking time should be around 50 minutes, but always verify doneness with an internal temperature check.

Step 7: Verify Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. The exterior should be crispy and golden-brown, with juices running clear when pierced.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer to a plate or serving platter. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes, which helps redistribute the juices, resulting in tender, moist meat. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides and enjoy this comforting, crispy chicken.

Preparation Tips

• Uniformity is key: Use chicken pieces of similar size for even cooking and browning.
• Season generously: Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper to elevate the flavor profile.
• Use high-quality butter: For richer flavor, opt for European-style butter or clarified butter if available.
• Maintain oven temperature: Avoid opening the oven door too frequently to keep the temperature consistent.
• Adjust for bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pieces tend to be juicier and require slightly longer cooking times.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add a pinch of garlic or onion powder to the dry coating mixture for extra depth.
• Make it crispy: For extra crunch, sprinkle a little cornstarch into the Bisquick mixture.
• Healthier options: Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter for a lower saturated fat content.
• Batch cooking: Prepare multiple batches and freeze leftovers for quick future meals. Reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Add-ons

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the coating for heat.
• Herb seasoning: Incorporate dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the dry mix.
• Cheese crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar into the coating for added flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted seasonal vegetables
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Buttery cornbread or dinner rolls
• Steamed green beans or broccoli

Improvements

For an even more indulgent experience, consider brining the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours beforehand, which enhances moisture retention. Alternatively, coating the chicken with a mixture of crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead of Bisquick can increase crunchiness. Experimenting with different seasonings or adding a splash of hot sauce to the melted butter can also elevate the flavor profile. Finally, for a gluten-free version, substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving leftovers, as this often results in soggy coating.

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they will cook faster. Reduce baking time to approximately 30-35 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F. To ensure juiciness, consider pounding the breasts to an even thickness before coating.

Is Bisquick necessary, or can I substitute it?

Bisquick is ideal for this recipe due to its baking powder and flour content, which create a light, crispy crust. If unavailable, you can substitute with a homemade mixture of flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and seasonings, but results may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free baking mix designed for coating, or make your own with rice flour or almond flour combined with baking powder and seasonings. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What if I don’t have melted butter?

You can substitute melted butter with olive oil, vegetable oil, or a dairy-free margarine. Keep in mind that different fats may influence the flavor and crispiness slightly.

Conclusion

Oven Fried Bisquick Chicken offers a foolproof way to enjoy crispy, flavorful poultry with minimal fuss. Its combination of simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and versatile flavor customization makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. By mastering the techniques and tips outlined here, you’ll be able to produce consistently delicious results that rival fried chicken but with less mess and fewer calories. Whether served with classic sides or incorporated into a larger feast, this dish will surely become a family favorite. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more culinary inspiration and detailed recipes to elevate your home cooking experience.

References

• Bisquick Official Website. (n.d.). Classic Chicken Coating Recipes. Retrieved from https://www.bisquick.com
• Smith, J. (2018). The Art of Oven Baked Chicken. Food Science Journal, 45(3), 112-125.