Crispy Taco-Seasoned Oven Chicken
Savor the bold flavors of taco-inspired seasoning with this game-changing Crispy Taco-Seasoned Oven Chicken recipe! Perfectly seasoned chicken pieces undergo a delicious oven-frying process that creates an irresistible crispy coating without the mess of deep frying. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder gives the chicken a delightful kick, while the baking method ensures a juicy, succulent interior. Share this crowd-pleaser with friends and family or enjoy it as a tasty meal prep option throughout the week!
4
Servings
300
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
1/3 cup (none)
taco seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce) envelope (store-bought or homemade)
seasoning salt
1/4 teaspoon (optional, use Johnnie's)
chili powder
1 tablespoon (none)
cumin
1 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
sugar
1/4 teaspoon (none)
crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon (none)
egg
1 large (beaten)
milk
1 tablespoon (none)
Louisiana hot sauce
1 tablespoon (optional)
broiler or broiler-fryer chicken
1 large (cut into pieces (6-8 pieces))
butter
3-4 tablespoons (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a shallow baking pan with aluminum foil. Grease the foil lightly to prevent sticking.
2
In two large brown paper lunch sacks, combine the flour, taco seasoning mix, seasoning salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Shake well to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
3
In a shallow bowl, beat together the egg, milk, and Louisiana hot sauce until well combined.
4
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, place the chicken in one of the brown paper sacks with the dry mixture. Shake vigorously until the chicken is evenly coated.
5
Once all the chicken pieces are coated, return each piece to the bag and give them a second shake to achieve an extra crispy layer.
6
Arrange the chicken pieces bone-side down on the prepared baking pan, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
7
Before placing in the oven, lightly spray each piece of chicken with butter-flavored cooking spray for added crispiness.
8
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to help the coating set.
9
After 15 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and baste each piece generously with melted butter using a brush.
10
Continue baking uncovered for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. If using smaller pieces, be sure to check for doneness earlier.
11
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your crispy taco chicken with friends and family!
Nutrition Information
17.5g
Fat
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary flavor profile of this chicken recipe?
The recipe features bold, taco-inspired flavors using a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and taco seasoning.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for this recipe.
How should I prepare the baking pan?
Line a shallow baking pan with aluminum foil and grease the foil lightly to prevent the chicken from sticking.
What tool is recommended for mixing and coating the dry ingredients?
The recipe suggests using two large brown paper lunch sacks to combine and shake the ingredients for even coating.
Which spices are included in the dry mixture?
The dry mix includes flour, taco seasoning mix, seasoning salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
What specific seasoning salt brand is suggested?
The recipe recommends using Johnnie's seasoning salt if available.
What ingredients make up the wet coating mixture?
The wet mixture consists of one large beaten egg, a tablespoon of milk, and a tablespoon of Louisiana hot sauce.
Is the hot sauce required for this recipe?
No, the Louisiana hot sauce is listed as an optional ingredient.
How do I ensure the chicken gets an extra crispy layer?
After the initial coating, return each piece of chicken to the bag for a second shake to double-coat the exterior.
In what orientation should the chicken be placed on the pan?
Arrange the chicken pieces bone-side down on the prepared baking pan.
What is the secret step before putting the chicken in the oven?
Lightly spray each piece of chicken with butter-flavored cooking spray to enhance the final crispiness.
How long is the initial baking phase?
The chicken should bake for an initial 15 minutes to allow the coating to set properly.
What must be done after the first 15 minutes of baking?
Remove the chicken from the oven and generously baste each piece with melted butter using a brush.
How much longer does the chicken cook after basting?
The chicken requires an additional 40-45 minutes of baking time uncovered.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature is safe for consumption.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What type of chicken should I buy for this recipe?
A large broiler or broiler-fryer chicken, cut into 6-8 pieces, is recommended.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Yes, you can use either a 1 1/4 ounce store-bought envelope or an equivalent amount of homemade taco seasoning.
What are the nutritional highlights of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, 17.5g of fat, and 22.5g of protein.
What sides pair well with taco-seasoned chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or a fresh garden salad.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent meal prep option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Does this recipe require deep frying?
No, this is an oven-frying method that creates a crispy coating without the mess of a deep fryer.
Should I cover the chicken while it bakes?
No, the chicken should remain uncovered during the final 40-45 minutes of baking to ensure it stays crispy.
What if I am using smaller pieces of chicken?
If you are using smaller pieces, be sure to check for doneness earlier than the recommended 40-45 minutes.
How much butter is used for the basting step?
The recipe calls for 3 to 4 tablespoons of melted butter for basting.
Why is there sugar in the dry mix?
A small amount of sugar (1/4 teaspoon) is used to balance the savory and spicy flavors of the taco seasoning.
Can I use regular salt instead of seasoning salt?
You can, but seasoning salt adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the taco theme.
How much cumin is required?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of cumin.
Is it necessary to let the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a succulent interior.
What makes the interior of the chicken stay juicy?
The oven-baking method at a moderate temperature helps lock in moisture, keeping the inside succulent while the outside crisps up.