Shake and Bake Chicken

If you are looking for a versatile dish that works for any occasion with any of your favorite sides, then you are going to love today's recipe.

Ready in 25 minutes, this simple recipe only uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. 

This delicious homemade shake and bake chicken is sure to become your new go-to dish for any night of the week.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it's quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Making your own blend allows you to adjust the seasonings to your liking and avoid any preservatives or additives that may be in store-bought mixes. Plus, it's a fun and easy way to add flavor to your meals!

This homemade shake and bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad, making it a go-to option for any occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used in this easy shake and bake recipe because they are easy however, chicken thighs can also be used. In fact, they may even yield more tender and flavorful results. Try shake and bake pork chops as an alternative. Boneless turkey cutlets also work well, offering a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use the same coating mix for tofu, cauliflower florets, or zucchini slices. You can also make some shake and bake fish using cod or tilapia fillets.

Olive Oil:

The olive oil acts as a binding agent for the breading, allowing it to bind to the chicken. It also creates a crispy, even cook on your oven-baked shake and bake chicken. Instead of oil, try using beaten eggs or egg whites for a light and crispy coating. Yogurt or buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the fish while binding the breading. For a dairy-free option, use a mixture of Dijon mustard and a little water for added flavor and adhesion. 

Breadcrumbs:

Any breadcrumbs that you have on hand will work for this recipe. However, for the crispiest results, panko works best.

Seasonings:

To create the best shake and bake chicken, add all of your favorite seasonings to the breadcrumb mix. While this recipe uses salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried parsley, you can add anything you want to. Cayenne, rosemary, cumin, and coriander are popular options.

How to Make Homemade shake and bake chicken

Step One: 

Add the chicken to a bowl and toss in the olive oil to coat.

Step Two:

Add breadcrumbs, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, onion powder, and dried thyme to a separate bowl and stir to combine.

Step Three: 

Dredge the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring to coat evenly.

Step Four: 

Place the beaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400F for 20 minutes.

Step Five: 

Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes.

Step Six: 

Serve your homemade shake and bake chicken topped with fresh herbs, alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!

Tips

• Before coating the chicken, lightly season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This adds flavor from the inside out. You can even try to marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a mixture of yogurt and spices for a few hours before coating and baking. This gives you a much juicier, tender, and flavorful piece of chicken.
• For an even crispier ochicken, dip the chicken in the coating mixture, press it down to adhere, and then repeat the process.
• Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure an even cook. Alternatively, cook the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate the chicken, ensuring it cooks evenly and stays crispy.
• Prepare a larger batch of the shake and bake chicken coating and store it in an airtight container. It’s great to have on hand for quick and easy meals.

What to Serve With Homemade shake and bake chicken

This homemade shake and bake chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp coleslaw for a classic comfort meal. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, add color and nutrition, while a fresh green salad with vinaigrette provides a light, refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread or a fluffy rice pilaf to complement your crispy shake and bake chicken.

FAQs

Can I make gluten-free shake and bake chicken?

Yes, you can. Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that all other ingredients, like seasonings, are gluten-free.

Can I air fry the shake and bake chicken?

Yes, you can air fry shake and bake chicken at 375F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy finish.

What's the best way to store leftover homemade shake and bake chicken?

Store leftover homemade shake and bake chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze for up to 2 months, wrap pieces in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. 

More Chicken Recipes

Bored of your same old go-to chicken recipes? We have rounded up some of our favorite chicken recipes to share with you that will hopefully inspire you to create your next great chicken-based masterpiece in the kitchen.

Lemon Pepper Chicken

Chicken Katsu

Chicken Satay

Kung Pao Chicken