Slap Yo Mama Oven-Baked Fried Smart Chicken

Oh My! This is a "Slap Yo Mama" recipe for delicious southern "fried" chicken. You get the taste of fried Smart Chicken without all the mess; plus you get the added benefit of it being so much healthier for you!

4+ cups Rice Krispy cereal, crushed in food processor, blender or in a zip-lock bag, use more if needed*
1/2 package Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning Mix, optional
Or
3 Tablespoons Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning Mix, optional
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 stick unsalted butter, melted, or more if needed

1 package Smart Chicken, your choice of pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, etc.)

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a small bowl, place melted butter. Line baking sheet with parchment paper to aid in clean up. Set aside.
• In a gallon-size zip-lock bag, add crushed cereal, powdered ranch seasoning, if using, and salt and pepper. Dip Smart Chicken pieces in butter and place in zip-lock bag. Shake well. For extra-crispy Smart Chicken, repeat process. You can dip the Smart Chicken in a container filled with crushed cereal.
• Place Smart Chicken pieces on baking sheet. Place in oven and bake for 20 minutes. With a fork or pair of tongs, turn Smart Chicken over and bake approximately 20 more minutes, or until a digital thermometer reads at least 170 degrees F. Remove and place on serving platter or plate. Serve.

Serves 4.

Note: The drippings and crunchies found in the bottom of baking sheet can be added to your homemade gravy recipe.

Note: Because the Smart Chicken pieces are already rinsed for you, you do not have to rinse them again, unless you feel it is absolutely necessary for your peace of mind.

Slap Yo Mama Oven-Baked Fried Smart Chicken - KTUL.com - Tulsa, Oklahoma - News, Weather & Sports