Are you a fan of Shake n Bake, but wondering if you can use the pork version on chicken?
The answer is yes! In fact, you can use any Shake n Bake flavor on any type of meat. But why stick to the pre-packaged version when you can easily make your own homemade shake and bake with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry?
Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also a healthier alternative to deep frying.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make your own shake and bake mix and give you some tips on using it for chicken.
Get ready to shake things up in the kitchen!
Can You Use Pork Shake And Bake On Chicken?
As mentioned earlier, you can absolutely use pork Shake n Bake on chicken. The seasoning mix is essentially just seasoned breadcrumbs, so it will work on any type of meat.
However, if you’re looking for a more specific flavor profile for your chicken, you can easily make your own shake and bake mix with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
To make your own shake and bake mix, all you need is breadcrumbs and some herbs and spices. Dried basil, oregano, and parsley are commonly used, but feel free to use whatever herbs and spices you prefer.
Mix the breadcrumbs and herbs/spices together in a bowl, then place the mixture in a plastic bag. Add your chicken pieces to the bag, seal it, and shake until the chicken is coated in the mixture.
Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake in the oven according to the instructions for the specific type of meat you’re using.
Why Make Your Own Shake And Bake Mix?
Making your own shake and bake mix has several benefits. First and foremost, it allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavor to your liking. You can adjust the amount of salt, spices, and herbs to create a taste that suits your preferences.
Additionally, making your own mix can be more cost-effective than buying pre-made mixes at the store. You can buy ingredients in bulk and make a large batch of mix that will last for several meals.
Finally, making your own shake and bake mix is a great way to avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives that are often found in pre-made mixes. By using simple, whole ingredients, you can ensure that your meals are healthy and wholesome.
How To Make Homemade Shake And Bake Mix
Making your own homemade shake and bake mix is easy and cost-effective. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unseasoned, plain breadcrumbs
– 2 tsp. onion powder
– 2 tsp. dried parsley
– 2 tsp. dried basil
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1 tsp. paprika
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– 3 Tbsp. cooking oil
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, onion powder, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Mix the ingredients until well blended and there are no big clumps.
3. Drizzle the cooking oil over the mixture and stir until the oil is evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.
To use the homemade shake and bake mix:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F for pork or 425°F for chicken.
2. Wet each piece of meat and shake off excess water.
3. Pour some of the mixture into a large zippered bag.
4. Add the meat to the bag, seal it, and shake until the meat is coated in the mixture.
5. Shake off any excess breading and place the meat on a baking sheet.
6. Bake pork chops for 15-20 minutes, bone-in chicken for 40-45 minutes, or boneless chicken for 20-25 minutes.
With this homemade shake and bake mix, you can easily customize the seasoning to your liking and have a convenient option on hand for quick and easy dinners.
Tips For Using Shake And Bake On Chicken
If you’re using Shake and Bake on chicken, here are some tips to ensure you get a delicious and crispy result:
1. Dry the chicken: Before coating the chicken with Shake and Bake, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the breading stick better to the chicken.
2. Dip in flour and egg: To ensure that the breading stays on while baking, dip the chicken in flour first, then in beaten egg, before coating it with Shake and Bake.
3. Use Panko breadcrumbs: Instead of regular breadcrumbs, opt for Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
4. Bake on a cooling rack: Instead of using a regular baking sheet, place a cooling rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet and bake the chicken on top of the rack. This will prevent the breading from becoming soggy by allowing air to circulate around the chicken.
5. Serve immediately: For the crispiest result, serve the chicken immediately after baking. The longer it sits, the more likely the breading will become soft.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make delicious and crispy Shake and Bake chicken every time!
Other Meat Options To Use With Shake And Bake
While Shake n Bake is commonly used on chicken and pork, you can also use it on other types of meat. Beef, turkey, and even fish can be coated in the seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy and flavorful dish.
To use Shake n Bake on beef, choose a cut that is thin and tender, such as flank steak or sirloin. Coat the meat in the mixture and bake in the oven until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
For turkey, use boneless turkey breasts or cutlets. Coat the turkey in the mixture and bake until cooked through.
When using Shake n Bake on fish, choose a firm white fish such as cod or tilapia. Coat the fish in the mixture and bake until crispy and golden brown.
No matter what type of meat you choose to use with Shake n Bake, be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure it is cooked through and safe to eat.
Conclusion: Shake And Bake Your Way To Delicious, Healthy Meals
Shake and bake may have been originally marketed as a way to mimic the flavor and texture of Southern fried chicken, but it doesn’t have to be unhealthy. By making your own shake and bake mix with herbs and spices, you can create a delicious and healthy coating for your chicken. Plus, by baking rather than deep frying your chicken, you can reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in your meal.
In fact, choosing healthier cooking methods like steaming, grilling, or baking can make a big difference in the overall healthiness of your meals. And if you’re looking for even more healthy meal options, consider exploring the DASH eating plan or experimenting with an air fryer. With a little creativity and some simple ingredients, you can shake and bake your way to delicious and healthy meals every day.
