Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Fillet is a deliciously golden, crunchy, and juicy dish that’s perfect for dinner, sandwiches, or meal prep. With a crisp breadcrumb coating and tender meat inside, this healthier version of fried chicken offers all the flavor and texture without the mess or extra oil.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden coating without deep frying
- Juicy, tender chicken fillets every time
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Oven-baked for a healthier option
- Versatile for sandwiches, wraps, or salads
- Easy to prep and bake—no fancy tools needed
- Great for meal prep or freezing
- Customizable with your favorite spices
- Perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs or panko
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for drizzling or misting)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, dried herbs (thyme, oregano)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to create fillets, then pound to an even thickness if needed.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Flour mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder
- Beaten eggs
- Breadcrumbs or panko (mix with Parmesan and herbs, if using)
- Dredge each chicken fillet in the seasoned flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Place fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use seasoned panko for extra crunch
- Add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy version
- Make it cheesy with shredded Parmesan in the coating
- Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a twist
- Add lemon zest or Italian herbs for flavor
- Use crushed cornflakes or crackers for a unique texture
storage/reheating
Store cooked chicken fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until crispy. To freeze, place cooled fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container and reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
FAQs
How do I get my chicken fillets crispy in the oven?
Use a wire rack, coat the chicken well, and spray with oil. High heat also helps crisp the coating.
Can I use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko yields a crunchier texture and is highly recommended for extra crispiness.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) and juices should run clear when cut.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the fillets ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What dipping sauces go well with this?
Try honey mustard, garlic aioli, ranch, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce.
Can I freeze the chicken fillets?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced thin or chicken cutlets work best.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Is it okay to use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and also delicious in this recipe.
What sides go well with crispy chicken fillets?
Serve with mashed potatoes, fries, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Fillet is a go-to recipe that delivers crunch, flavor, and satisfaction without frying. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for everything from sandwiches to dinner plates. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a healthier version of crispy chicken that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Print
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Fillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Fillet is a healthier alternative to fried chicken, featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or a main course.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Marinate in buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight in the fridge).
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil or melted butter.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Place the fillets on the wire rack and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Add Italian seasoning or chili flakes to the coating for variation.
- Great in sandwiches, wraps, or over salads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg