Want a crunchy, boldly seasoned chicken recipe that’s simply amazing? Shake and Bake Chicken is a must-try. This modern, homemade recipe is sure to be loved by all Americans, with step-by-step instructions.
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Shake and Bake Chicken: A Modern Homemade Recipe
Crispy chicken is a classic comfort food in the United States, and few recipes are as logistically simple as Shake and Bake Chicken.
Store-bought mixes often contain preservatives, high sodium, and artificial flavors, so your homemade Shake and Bake Chicken recipe is a game-changer.
This updated version is golden with bold seasonings, giving the chicken a crunch. It’s all made from pantry staples. No deep-frying, no mashing; just shake and bake and enjoy.
If you’re looking for something to make for a busy weeknight, meal-prep, or to feed fussy kids, this recipe is perfect in every way – it’s juicy, crispy, and oven-baked to perfection.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How to make a Shake and Bake Chicken recipe
- Step-by-step instructions for perfect crispiness
- Best tips for air fryers, ovens, and meal-prep
- Tips to avoid common mistakes
- Finally, answers to questions
What is Shake and Bake Chicken?
- Shake and Bake Chicken is a very simple way of cooking chicken pieces in spiced breadcrumbs, shake them in a bag or container, and then bake them in the oven until crispy.
- This recipe has been popular in the USA since the 1960s.
It’s popular for:
- Healthier than traditional fried chicken
- Faster than frying
- Better for beginners
- This homemade version is very convenient, yet tastes amazing.
Why this homemade version is popular:
- Gives a crispy texture without the need for frying.
- No boxed mixes or preservatives.
- It goes great with thighs, chicken breast, and drumsticks.
- It’s kid-friendly and budget-friendly.
- It also has customizable seasoning.
All the ingredients you need for Shake and Bake Chicken:
Ingredients for the Chicken:
- Use 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 pounds chicken – thigh, breast, bone-in piece, or drumstick
Ingredients for the Homemade Coating:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – optional but recommended
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional for heat
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Kitchen Essentials:
- Baking sheet
- Large zip-top bag with lid or mixing bowl
- Oven
- Wire rack, recommended for extra crispiness
Step-by-step instructions.
1. Preheating the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F, 204°C and have it ready.
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- If you have a wire rack, use it. This allows for air circulation and keeps the chicken crispy all around.
2. Preparing the Cutting
- Use a large zip-top bag or container and add all the ingredients:
- Spices and seasonings
- Breadcrumbs
- Seal the bag and shake well until evenly mixed.
Pro tip: Always taste the breadcrumb mix before adding the chicken. You can adjust the seasoning or salt level if needed.
3. Preparing the Chicken
- Pat all the chicken pieces dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
- This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
- Now, lightly brush each piece with olive oil or melted butter.
- This helps the coating adhere better and brown evenly.
4. Shaking the Chicken
- Add 2 chicken pieces at a time to the bag and seal.
- Continue shaking to coat thoroughly.
- Remove the chicken and lightly press down on the coated surface if needed.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Place the coated chicken on the baking sheet or prepared rack, making sure to leave space between the pieces.
- Don’t overcrowd, or your chicken will steam instead of crisp.
6. Bake Perfectly
- Bake uncovered:
- Boneless chicken for 30 to 40 minutes
- Bone-in chicken for 45 to 50 minutes
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F, 74°C.
7. Rest and Serve
- Be sure to let the chicken rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.
- This will help lock the juices into the meat and ensure a crisp crust.
Tips for Extra Crispy Shake and Bake Chicken:
- Be sure to bake on a wire rack.
- Finish by broiling for 3 to 4 minutes, optional.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of a regulator.
- Adding oil or butter is essential.
- Be sure to turn halfway through baking.
For Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken, alternative method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and have it ready.
- Cook the chicken for 15 to 18 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- This method uses less oil and yields an ultra-crispy result.
Some suggestions for the best chicken cuts:
- For chicken thighs – the juicier and more flavorful the better.
- For chicken breast – lean and classic.
- For bone-in chicken – best for a deeper flavor.
- For drumsticks – perfect for kids and a lot of fun.
Serving Suggestions with Shake and Bake Chicken:
- A classic American side dish might include:
- Corn corn
- Coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes
- Dinner rolls
- Green beans
- Cheese and mac
- For a light meal, serve with a garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Suggestions:
Storage
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
To Reheat:
- Heat in an air fryer at 350°F for 6 minutes.
- Heat in an oven at 375°F for 11 to 12 minutes.
- If you want crispy chicken, avoid using the microwave.
Some common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t overfill the pan
- Don’t flip halfway through
- Don’t pour oil on the chicken
- Don’t bake at low temperatures
- Don’t use wet chicken
Shake and Bake Chicken Nutrition:
- Protein – 32g
- Carbohydrate – 18g
- Calories – 320
- Fat – 12g
- Nutrition varies depending on the type of chicken and the breadcrumbs used.
FAQ
Answers to questions about Shake and Bake Chicken and how to correct mistakes when making it:
Q. Why isn’t the chicken crispy?
Reasons:
Too much moisture, overcrowding, or using too much oil.
Q. Is Shake and Bake Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken is healthier than fried chicken because it’s baked, not deep-fried, so it contains less processed cheese.
Q. Can I make Shake and Bake Chicken without breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use crushed corn flakes, almond flour, or crushed crackers as an alternative.
Q. Can I use skin-on chicken?
Yes! But remove excess skin fat and bake a little longer for crispiness.
Q. Can Shake and Bake Chicken be gluten-free?
Yes! Use breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal to make it gluten-free.
Can I freeze Shake and Bake?
Yes! You can freeze baked chicken for up to 2 months and reheat it in the oven or air fryer for the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
Shake and Bake Chicken proves with crispy oven magic that comfort food doesn’t have to be difficult. It doesn’t have to be unhealthy; simple ingredients, easy steps, and a truly amazing American-style flavor make this a great recipe you’ll want to eat again and again.
It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend cooking, or meal prep. Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken is a wonderful classic recipe that you can also make a new version of.