How to make Homemade Shake and Bake! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for making Shake and Bake pork chops or chicken breasts with crispy outsides and juicy insides- no frying required!
Kraft’s boxed Shake ‘N Bake may be a popular pantry staple, but nothing beats the flavor and quality of a homemade Shake and Bake recipe. This version is not only more delicious but also made with simple pantry ingredients—no high fructose corn syrup, yeast extract, or questionable “natural flavors.” Chances are, you probably already have everything you need in your pantry.
It’s also super quick and easy to make—quicker than a trip to the grocery store. You can even double or triple the batch and store it for busy weeknights when you need an easy family-friendly dinner ready asap. It’s perfect for making both Shake and Bake Chicken and my personal favorite—crispy, juicy Shake and Bake Pork Chops.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for the Perfect Shake and Bake Recipe
Find the printable recipe with measurements in the recipe card below.
So, “Shake ‘N Bake” is basically just seasoned breadcrumbs. To make this homemade version, we’re combining regular breadcrumbs with cornstarch to create a super crisp coating and help the seasoning mixture stick to the meat. To season and add flavor, we’re adding garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Jessica’s Tip: This seasoning blend is perfect for classic shake-and-bake flavor, but it’s easy to play around with different seasoning variations. One of my favorite ways to do this is by swapping out the classic seasoning blend for 2-3 tablespoons of me homemade ranch seasoning or Cajun seasoning. You can also use a combination of regular + panko-style breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating.
How to Make Homemade Shake and Bake Seasoning
Step 1: Add the breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper to medium bowl.
Step 2: Mix well until completely combined. Keep it stored it in a sealed container for up to 6 months.
How Much Shake and Bake Seasoning Do I need Per Pound of Meat?
Generally, you will need about 1/2 cup of the coating mixture per 1 pound of meat. This may vary depending on how thick you prefer your coating or if you use panko vs. regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier, so you may need more coating if your seasoning mixture is made with just panko breadcrumbs.
Which Meat is Best with Homemade Shake and Bake?
You can pair this flavorful coating with a variety of different meats. My favorites include,
- Chicken: This should come as no surprise. I mean, the original Shake’N Bake was practically made for chicken. Chicken pieces like drumsticks, thighs, tenders, and breasts are the classic choice.
- Pork: Pork chops are a fantastic alternative to chicken and should not be overlooked! The coating adds a delicious, crispy crust while the inside remains light and juicy.
- Fish: Less popular, but actually really delicious. It works best on light and flaky white fish like tilapia or cod.
Frequently Asked Questions
“Shake ‘N Bake” is a commercially flavored breadcrumb-style coating for chicken and pork. It comes in a variety of flavors such as Original Chicken, Pork, Parmesan Crusted, and Crispy Buffalo. Shake ‘N Bake became popular for its ease of use and healthier alternative to frying. Who can forget the old school shake and bake commercial, “It’s Shake ‘n Bake, and I helped!”
As written, no. But you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and checking that your spices are certified gluten-free.
Yes! This homemade Shake and Bake mix works great on vegetables. Toss chopped veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or potatoes with a little oil, then coat with a few tablespoons of the seasoning mix. Roast or air-fry until crispy and golden. It’s an easy way to add bold flavor and texture to your veggie sides.
RECIPE CARD
Homemade Shake and Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs - plain, see notes
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl and mix well to combine. Store leftover seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Jessica’s Notes
- Homemade Shake and Bake can be made with either regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, or a combination of each. With that said, I find that the coating sticks best and has the best texture when at least half of the coating consists of regular breadcrumbs.
- Optional additions: Granulated sugar or cayenne powder (for heat).
Nutritional Information
(Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.)
This recipe is really good. I’ll never buy Shake n Bake again!