Shake 'N Bake
Shake 'N Bake offers a crunchy, flavorful coating perfect for baked chicken or pork, combining savory spices and crispy cracker meal for a delightful, healthier alternative to frying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- For raw meat, put 8 teaspoons of salt in a bowl.
- In a separate large bowl, mix flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cracker meal, and sugar.
- Add vegetable oil to the mixture and stir until well combined to form the coating.
- Dredge raw meat in the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Bake as desired until cooked through and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter coating, consider substituting half the flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. If you're out of paprika, smoked paprika or cayenne can add a unique twist. To enhance flavor, add dried herbs like thyme or oregano. Be sure to mix the coating well to ensure an even distribution of spices for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This Shake 'N Bake coating is perfect for chicken, pork, or even veggies for a crispy bake. Serve with a side of Memorable Macaroni Salad or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. Pair with Aunt Lyd's Punch for a refreshing drink that complements the meal beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coating in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to three months. If you have leftover cooked meat, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shake 'N Bake contains roughly 1163 calories, with 27g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this coating on vegetables?
Absolutely! This Shake 'N Bake mixture works great on vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or even potatoes. Just ensure the veggies are cut into similar sizes for even cooking and adjust baking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Shake 'N Bake gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cracker meal is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same crispy coating without the gluten.
What types of meat work best with this coating?
This coating is versatile and works well with chicken, pork, and fish. For chicken, legs or breasts are ideal, while pork chops or tenderloin also take on the flavors wonderfully. Just adjust the baking time based on the meat type.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).