1whole chicken, cut up, bone in, skin offSUB 4 breasts or 6 thighs. Bake the skin on a sheet pan for chicharrones.
Wet Dredge
1cupfull fat Greek yogurtSUB nonfat
1/4cupsour cream
1/4 cupmayonnaise
2Tbldijon mustard
1 TblSrirachaoptional, but adds depth NOT heat
Dry Dredge
1/2cupflourMasa is good here
1/4cupcorn starch or rice flour
1/2cupbread crumbsItalian or plain
3/4cuppanko bread crumbs
2Tblsmoked paprika
1Tbl each salt and pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F. Put racks on sheet pans covered with foil and spray with nonstick spray. (You can make the chicken directly on the pan if you don't have racks, but it is crispier on racks.)
Cut up chicken and remove skin. (If making chicharonnes, get another foil covered sheet pan and spread skin flat, season with s/p, bake until crisp.)
Mix together wet dredge and dry dredge in separate bowls or baking dishes.
Dredge chicken pieces in wet dredge, it is thick, so get it as even as possible and get it in all the creases. Then press into dry dredge. You can't get too much panko on it!
Put chicken on the racks and spray lightly with nonstick spray to get the panko to brown.
Bake for around 45 minutes, turning the chicken at least once. Remember to spray with nonstick spray when you turn it. If you are using boneless pieces, they will be done in less time. Use a thermometer as your guide to doneness.
Chicken is done when temp is 165°, dark meat can to go 170°. Use a thermometer and take out pieces as they finish. Remember, meat continues to cook for a few minutes out of the oven. This recipe is very forgiving, and will keep your chicken moist, but try not to overcook the breast.