Baked fried chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for coating

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. You can even marinate them overnight for extra flavor.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Remove each chicken breast from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat them evenly with the seasoned flour mixture.
6. Place the coated chicken breasts on the wire rack on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
7. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken breasts with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them. This will help them get crispy in the oven.
8. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve your baked fried chicken hot with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.

Enjoy your delicious, healthier version of fried chicken!