Baked Crispy Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that has transformed my weeknight meals. With its crunchy cornflake crust and juicy, tender chicken, this recipe is a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce, these chicken breasts are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

There are countless reasons to adore this Baked Crispy Chicken Breast. First, it delivers a satisfying crunch without the guilt of frying. Second, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that comes together quickly. Third, the buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken incredibly moist. Fourth, it’s packed with protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Fifth, the crispy baked chicken is versatile—pair it with salads, veggies, or your favorite grains. Finally, it’s a fun dish to customize with various spices and seasonings!

Ingredients for Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

Gather these items:

6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thickness
1 cup buttermilk
½ tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 ¼ cups crushed corn flakes
¾ teaspoon paprika
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¾ teaspoon poultry seasoning

How to Make Baked Crispy Chicken Breast Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag with the buttermilk and hot sauce. Seal the bag and turn it until the chicken pieces are fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
Step 2: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400°F (204°C). Spray a wire rack with nonstick spray and place it on a large rimmed baking sheet to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
Step 3: On a wide, shallow plate, spread the flour. Pour the reserved marinade into a medium bowl. In a separate wide bowl, combine crushed corn flakes, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and poultry seasoning evenly.
Step 4: Remove chicken from the marinade bag and place on a clean plate. Coat each breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the marinade bowl again, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the cornflake mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crust.
Step 5: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature between 155°F to 165°F) and the crust is crispy.
Step 6: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
Be sure to let the chicken rest after baking for maximum juiciness.
For extra flavor, try adding different herbs and spices to the cornflake mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish. Serve it atop a fresh salad for a light meal or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. You can also slice it for sandwiches or wraps, making it a versatile protein choice for any meal!

How to Store and Reheat Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

To store leftover chicken, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy texture. This method is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Crispy Chicken Breast

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Crispy Chicken Breast?

The key to perfecting your Baked Crispy Chicken Breast lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk and hot sauce not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy outcome.

Can I make Baked Crispy Chicken Breast ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the Baked Crispy Chicken Breast up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve, or reheat leftovers in the oven for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Crispy Chicken Breast?

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Ensure each piece has enough space for the hot air to circulate, resulting in that perfect crispy skin.

Variations of Baked Crispy Chicken Breast You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Try a crispy baked chicken breast marinade using lemon and herbs, or add some Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist. You can also switch out the corn flakes for panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Baked Crispy Chicken Breast: 6 Flavorful Secrets - Baked Crispy Chicken Breast - main visual representation

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our Chicken Noodle Egg Drop Soup or Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe.

Baked Crispy Chicken Breast: 6 Flavorful Secrets - Baked Crispy Chicken Breast - additional detail

For more tips on cooking chicken, you can visit Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup or explore Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta.