Bisquick Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing chicken dinner that packs a golden crunch and juicy bite every time, Bisquick Fried Chicken is bound to deliver. With Bisquick baking mix in your pantry, you don’t need to fuss over frying for that deep-fried flavor and crispy texture. Instead, you get a simple, baked version that tastes like comfort food should—savory, crispy, and perfectly moist on the inside.

This article will walk you through the essential steps, handy tips, flavor options, and meal pairings to help you master Bisquick Fried Chicken at home.

Why Choose Bisquick Fried Chicken?

Bisquick Fried Chicken holds a special place in weeknight cooking. Unlike traditional fried chicken, you skip the mess of a hot oil bath and instead rely on your oven for crisping magic. This method keeps things cleaner and lighter, leaving you with less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The Bisquick coating locks in juices and creates a satisfying crunch. As a bonus, it’s versatile—adaptable enough for different cuts and flavors.

Ingredients

You only need a handful of straightforward ingredients to get started. Here’s what works best:

3 to 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
1 cup Bisquick baking mix
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 large eggs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Optional Add-ins:
– Smoked paprika, cayenne, or chili powder for spice.
– Italian seasoning, dried herbs, or onion powder for a different twist.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This small step helps the coating adhere and results in crisper skin.

Make the Coating

In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together Bisquick, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in any optional spices if you want to experiment.

Prep the Dipping Station

In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

Dredge and Coat

Dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated.
Next, dredge the egg-coated chicken in the Bisquick mixture. Gently press to help the coating stick. Make sure the chicken is covered well for the crispiest texture.

Prepare Baking Pan

Place the butter in a large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan. Slide the pan into the oven to melt the butter as it heats.
Once melted, arrange the coated chicken skin-side down in the pan. The butter helps the coating brown and develop deep flavor.

Bake

Bake the chicken for 30 minutes. Carefully turn each piece over using tongs.
Continue baking another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the coating is golden.

Rest and Serve

Immediately transfer the baked chicken to a wire rack or platter. This step keeps the crust crisp and prevents sogginess from the residual butter.

Tips and Tricks for Irresistible Results

Choose the Right Cut: For juicier chicken, opt for bone-in, skin-on pieces. They retain moisture better and yield a traditional fried chicken bite.
Thin or Boneless Cuts: If using boneless or thin pieces, reduce baking time. Chicken tenders or thin breasts often need 30-35 minutes total—flip halfway through.
DIY Bisquick Alternative: If you run out of Bisquick, make your own. Combine 6 cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons baking powder, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 cup vegetable shortening. Store any extra for future batches.
Flavorful Coating: Add dried herbs, smoked paprika, cayenne, Italian seasoning, or lemon pepper to the Bisquick blend. These boost both aroma and flavor.
Melting Butter Evenly: Swirl the pan or use a brush for even coverage to ensure every piece develops a crisp, golden crust.
Avoid Soggy Chicken: Always remove chicken from the baking pan right after it comes out of the oven. Letting it sit in melted butter can make the coating lose its crunch.
Lining the Pan: If you’re not using a baking dish, line your pan with foil for easier cleanup.
Skin-Side Down: Begin baking skin-side down, then flip for even crisping and rendering.

Bisquick Fried Chicken Flavor Variations

You can easily tailor your Bisquick Fried Chicken to match different flavor profiles. Try these combinations:

Style	Seasonings	Flavor Notes
Spicy	Add cayenne, chili powder, black pepper	Hot and peppery
Smoky	Mix in smoked paprika, garlic powder	Deep, smoky aroma
Lemon Garlic	Lemon zest, garlic powder, parsley	Bright, zesty finish
Southern Classic	Add buttermilk powder, extra paprika	Tangy, classic taste
Barbecue	Barbecue rub, brown sugar	Sweet, smoky profile

To try these, simply add the suggested seasonings to the Bisquick coating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bisquick Fried Chicken really taste fried?

Yes, the Bisquick mix crisps up as it bakes—thanks to the oven’s dry heat and the butter’s browning ability. You get that signature crunch and deep flavor of fried chicken, minus the oil.

Can I use skinless chicken?

Absolutely, but the crust may not crisp as much as with skin-on pieces. For the crispiest results, stick with skin-on cuts.

Is there a gluten-free option?

You can swap regular Bisquick for a gluten-free version. Use the same method and proportions; the results stay similar.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Cool leftovers completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to crisp up the coating again.

Can I use this method for chicken tenders or wings?

Yes. For tenders or wings, reduce the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Make-Ahead and Batch Cooking Tips

To prep ahead, coat the chicken and arrange on a baking sheet. Cover loosely and refrigerate up to 8 hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest results.
To freeze, coat and arrange chicken on a lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to bags. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the time.

Serving Suggestions

Bisquick Fried Chicken is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with sides makes a true comfort dinner. Here are a few ideas:

Buttery Biscuits: Classic Southern pairing. Serve them hot, maybe with a touch of honey.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and perfect for soaking up any stray juices.
Coleslaw or Salad: Crisp greens add a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or corn work well.
Mac and Cheese: For a family-style feast.

For casual gatherings, set out different sauces. Honey mustard, barbeque, and ranch all work well.

Bisquick Fried Chicken blends the rich flavors of old-fashioned fried chicken with modern convenience. It works as a busy weeknight dinner, a relaxed weekend meal, or a main dish for your next potluck. The oven-baked method keeps it simple, the Bisquick ensures consistent crispiness, and a few clever flavor tweaks allow you to cater to any crowd.

Try out different seasonings and sides to put your own spin on this simple recipe. Once you taste that first crunchy bite, you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many kitchens.