Shake and Bake chicken. The name alone evokes memories of childhood dinners and the irresistible aroma of crispy, flavorful chicken. This iconic dish, once a staple in many American households, remains a beloved recipe for its simplicity and delicious results. But what exactly makes it so special, and how can you achieve that perfect, golden-brown crust? Let's dive in.
What is Shake and Bake Chicken?
Shake and Bake chicken is a method of preparing chicken pieces by coating them in a seasoned, crumbly mixture before baking. The original product, a pre-made coating mix, was introduced by General Mills in the 1950s and quickly became a kitchen shortcut sensation. While the original mix is still available, many home cooks now prefer to create their own custom blends, allowing for greater control over ingredients and flavor profiles. The "shake" part of the name refers to the simple process of tossing the chicken pieces in the coating until evenly covered. The "bake" part, of course, refers to the baking process that crisps the coating and cooks the chicken through.
How to Make Shake and Bake Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
The beauty of Shake and Bake chicken lies in its simplicity. Here's a basic recipe that you can adapt to your own taste:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra tenderness)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the coating: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
- Coat the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss gently until they are evenly coated with the flour mixture.
- Add liquid: Slowly pour in the milk or buttermilk, stirring gently until the chicken is coated in a slightly moist, but not soggy, mixture.
- Bake: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!
What are the best cuts of chicken for Shake and Bake?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are best for Shake and Bake. The skin helps to crisp up beautifully, and the bone adds flavor. Thighs and drumsticks are particularly popular choices as they tend to stay juicy and flavorful during baking. Breasts can also be used, but they may require a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
Can I use different seasonings in my Shake and Bake?
Absolutely! The beauty of homemade Shake and Bake is the ability to customize the seasoning blend to your liking. Experiment with different herbs and spices such as cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, Italian seasoning for a savory flavor, or even a blend of your favorite BBQ spices.
How do I make sure my Shake and Bake chicken is crispy?
To ensure a crispy coating, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Ensure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer, allowing for even airflow around each piece. Also, ensure that the oven is preheated properly before adding the chicken.
Is Shake and Bake chicken healthy?
Like many fried or baked chicken recipes, Shake and Bake chicken is not considered a health food. It's high in fat and sodium. However, you can make healthier choices by using leaner cuts of chicken and adjusting the seasonings to reduce sodium content. Consider using a cooking spray instead of oil if you want to further reduce fat content.
Can I make Shake and Bake chicken ahead of time?
While you can prepare the chicken and coating mixture in advance, it's best to bake the chicken shortly before serving. This ensures the crispiest coating and juiciest chicken.
Shake and Bake chicken is a simple, versatile recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. Experiment with different seasonings and techniques to find your perfect version of this classic dish. Enjoy!
