Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs

Why Make This Recipe

Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs is a delicious way to enjoy a classic dish without all the guilt. By using whole wheat flour and baking instead of frying, you still get crispy, juicy chicken while keeping it healthier. Plus, the buttermilk marinade adds fantastic flavor and tenderness. This recipe is great for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

How to Make Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

1. Marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a bowl, mix together whole wheat flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
5. Place the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs

Serve Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs with a variety of sides. Some tasty options include mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor.

How to Store Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs

Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

Tips to Make Healthy Fried Chicken Thighs

• For extra flavor, add your favorite herbs to the flour mixture, like thyme or rosemary.
• If you like a spicier kick, include cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.
• Make sure the chicken is fully coated for the best crispy texture.

Variation

You can switch out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as breasts may take a little less time to cook through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

2. Can I use non-dairy milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Enjoy making and sharing this healthy twist on a fried classic!

Print