Shake and bake chicken. The name conjures up images of crispy, flavorful chicken, perfectly seasoned and ready in minutes. While the convenience of the pre-made kits is undeniable, making your own homemade shake and bake chicken is surprisingly easy and allows for complete customization to your taste. This guide will walk you through creating this classic dish from scratch, resulting in a healthier and more delicious outcome than store-bought versions.
What Makes Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken Better?
Many people opt for the convenience of pre-made Shake & Bake mixes. However, homemade versions offer several key advantages:
- Control over Ingredients: You choose the exact spices, herbs, and level of salt, ensuring it perfectly aligns with your preferences and dietary needs (reducing sodium, for instance).
- Fresher Flavors: Homemade mixes use freshly ground spices, resulting in a more vibrant and complex flavor profile compared to pre-mixed blends that may have lost some potency over time.
- Healthier Option: You can control the amount of fat and preservatives, leading to a healthier overall meal. Many commercial mixes contain added sugars and artificial flavors.
- Cost-Effective: While the initial cost of spices might seem higher, making your own mix is often cheaper in the long run, especially if you frequently make this dish.
Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken Recipe:
This recipe provides a delicious and versatile base. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique blend!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds a savory depth)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated in the flour mixture.
- Combine Breadcrumbs and Cheese: In a separate shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.
- Bake or Pan-Fry: You can either bake or pan-fry the chicken.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lightly coated with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy.
- Pan-frying: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken will require longer cooking times, and you may need to adjust the oven temperature or pan-frying method to ensure the chicken is cooked through without burning the breading.
What other spices can I add?
The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, chili powder, or even a blend of your favorite Italian seasonings.
How do I make it extra crispy?
For extra crispy chicken, use panko breadcrumbs, ensure the chicken is completely dry before breading, and don't overcrowd the pan or baking sheet. A light spray of cooking oil before baking also helps.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake or pan-fry it. However, it's best to cook it fresh for the optimal texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion:
Making homemade shake and bake chicken is a rewarding experience. The control over ingredients, the fresher flavors, and the overall healthier profile make it a superior choice to store-bought versions. So, gather your spices, put on your apron, and enjoy the delicious results of this classic comfort food, elevated to new heights with a homemade touch.
