Easy Crispy Chicken

The Ultimate Guide to Easy Crispy Chicken: Recipes & Tips with the Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket

Crispy chicken is a timeless favourite, loved for its golden, crunchy coating and juicy, tender interior. Whether you're making a quick weeknight meal or preparing something special for guests, getting that perfect crisp can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, the Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket makes it easier than ever to achieve restaurant-quality crispy chicken at home.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making easy crispy chicken, from must-try recipes to tips for perfect results. Whether you're after quick recipes for busy days or something a little more indulgent, this guide has got you covered.

Why Use the Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket?

The Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket is designed to deliver crispy results without the need for excessive oil. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

• Elevated Crisping Basket: The raised basket allows hot air to circulate around the food, ensuring an even, golden crisp.

• No Need to Flip: Because air reaches all sides, you don’t have to turn your chicken midway through cooking.

• Healthier Cooking: Achieve a deep-fried crunch without submerging your chicken in oil.

• Less Mess: The tray underneath catches any drips, keeping your oven clean.

• Versatile & Durable: Great for chicken, chips, vegetables, and even reheating leftovers.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s dive into some easy crispy chicken recipes you can try at home.

Quick & Easy Crispy Chicken Recipes

1. Classic Crispy Chicken Thighs (Quick & Simple)

A no-fuss recipe that delivers crispy, flavourful chicken thighs with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with kitchen paper – this helps ensure maximum crispiness.

3. Rub each piece with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the Pep Pans Crisping Basket.

5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Crunchy Buttermilk Chicken Strips (Great for Kids & Adults)

Perfect for a snack, lunch, or dinner, these buttermilk chicken strips are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

• 250ml buttermilk

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup plain flour

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• Cooking spray

Method:

1. Soak the chicken strips in buttermilk, salt, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).

2. In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat in the flour mixture.

4. Place the strips in the Pep Pans Crisping Basket, making sure they don’t overlap.

5. Lightly spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.

6. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.

7. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce.

3. Spicy Crispy Chicken Wings (Perfect for Game Night)

A hassle-free way to make spicy, crispy chicken wings without deep-frying.

Ingredients:

• 1kg chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp hot sauce

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp honey

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).

2. Pat the wings dry and toss with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.

3. Arrange in the Pep Pans Crisping Basket, ensuring space between each wing.

4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

5. Mix the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey, then toss the cooked wings in the sauce before serving.

4. Parmesan & Herb Crusted Chicken Breasts (Crispy & Flavourful)

A lighter, yet equally delicious crispy chicken option.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 egg, beaten

• Cooking spray

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Mix panko, Parmesan, oregano, basil, and garlic powder in a bowl.

3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Place in the Pep Pans Crisping Basket and lightly spray with cooking oil.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until crispy and golden.

6. Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Crispy Chicken Cooking Tips

• Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a crispier skin.

• Use baking powder (not baking soda) on wings for extra crunch.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket – leave space for air circulation.

• Lightly spray with cooking oil to enhance crispiness.

• Let cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Why This Method is Better Than Deep Frying

Using the Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket means you get crispy chicken with fewer calories, less mess, and no standing over hot oil. It’s a great way to enjoy the textures and flavours you love while making meals healthier and easier to prepare.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking up a quick dinner or preparing for a gathering, crispy chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. With the Pep Pans Oven Tray with Crisping Basket, achieving perfect crispiness is easier than ever—without the need for deep frying.

Try these easy, quick recipes, and let us know which one’s your favourite!

Happy cooking!