Crusty Baked Chicken 🍗
Description: This recipe for Crusty Baked Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, yet delivers a juicy, flavorful result every time. Thanks to the potato flakes, the chicken skin turns out beautifully crisp and golden brown. Serve it alongside a simple green salad, a fresh baguette, and some seasonal fruit for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients:
- 3 whole chicken pieces (legs or breasts)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup potato flakes
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop that desirable crispy crust.
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Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken pieces and give them a thorough rinse under cold water. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and set aside. Drying the chicken helps the coating adhere better.
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Prepare the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and add the milk. Whisk together until fully combined. This egg mixture will act as a binder for the coating.
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Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the potato flakes, salt, paprika, garlic salt, ground pepper, poultry seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. This blend of spices and cheese will give the chicken its flavorful crust.
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Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the chicken in the potato flake mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. The potato flakes create a crispy, golden crust as the chicken bakes.
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Prepare for Baking: Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Drizzle or brush the chicken with the melted butter, which adds richness and aids in browning the crust.
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Bake: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Halfway through cooking, turn the chicken to ensure it browns evenly on both sides.
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Crisp Up the Crust: After the initial 45 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestion: Once baked to perfection, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender. Pair with a simple green salad, fresh baguette, and seasonal fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy this easy and delicious Crusty Baked Chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite! 🍴🌟
