Air Fryer Shake And Bake: Can You Do It?

Shake and Bake chicken is a quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer. The air fryer's high heat cooks the chicken evenly, making it crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The air fryer also cuts down on cooking time compared to a conventional oven. To make Shake and Bake chicken in an air fryer, coat the chicken with a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings, then cook at 380°F (193°C) for 14-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How to get the perfect crispy coating

To get the perfect crispy coating when using an air fryer, there are several steps you can follow. Firstly, it is important to preheat your air fryer. This helps to create a crispy surface quickly and ensures your food starts cooking immediately when placed inside. Next, you should lightly coat your food with oil or cooking spray. This helps promote browning and crispiness, giving your food a crunchy texture. It is important to choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or grapeseed oil, to prevent any unpleasant burning smells. You can use an oil sprayer to ensure an even distribution of oil, or a pastry brush to lightly coat your food.

When coating your food, it is important to follow a specific order: dip in flour, then egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs or a mixture of your choice. You can also add crushed nuts or panko breadcrumbs to the coating for extra crunch. Make sure each piece of food is fully coated for maximum flavor, and shake off any excess coating to keep things crispy.

Another key factor in achieving a crispy texture is temperature control. Use a meat thermometer to check that your food has reached the desired internal temperature. For chicken, this should be 165°F (74°C). You can also flip your food halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on all sides. Finally, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring your food cooks consistently.

Preparing the chicken

First, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This will help the coating stick better. Next, moisten the chicken with a bit of water, olive oil, or mayonnaise. You can also use buttermilk or a beaten egg to add extra moisture and flavour.

Then, prepare the coating. If using a store-bought Shake and Bake mixture, simply pour it into a plastic bag. If making your own, mix together bread crumbs, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, parsley, and thyme in a large freezer bag. Add in a tablespoon of olive oil and mix until a sandy texture is created.

Now, it's time to coat the chicken. Place the chicken, one piece at a time, into the bag with the coating. Seal the bag and shake until the chicken is evenly coated. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the chicken to ensure an even coating.

Finally, prepare the air fryer by lightly spraying it with a non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. You can also spritz the air fryer with oil spray. Place the chicken in a single layer inside the air fryer, being sure to leave space between each piece so the hot air can circulate and cook the chicken evenly.

The best cooking temperature

The ideal temperature for cooking shake and bake in an air fryer is between 380°F and 400°F (193°C to 200°C). This temperature range will ensure that your chicken is cooked through and has a crispy texture.

It is important to preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature before adding the chicken. This initial blast of hot air will help to crisp the outside of the chicken while keeping the inside moist and tender. Depending on the wattage and size of your air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.

When cooking shake and bake chicken in an air fryer, it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that your chicken is cooked safely and thoroughly. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones, to get an accurate reading.

Additionally, it is recommended to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. For extra crispiness, you can flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process.

Reheating chicken in an air fryer

Preparation:

Firstly, it is recommended to bring the chicken to room temperature before reheating. This helps ensure that the chicken reheats evenly and prevents it from drying out. If you are reheating chicken breasts, slice them into approximately 1/2-inch (1 cm) thick pieces to facilitate quicker and more uniform reheating.

Preheating the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature setting allows for effective reheating without drying out the chicken. Allow the air fryer to warm up adequately, usually for a few minutes.

Preparing the Chicken:

Place the chicken in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Ensure the pieces are not crowded to allow for proper air circulation. You can coat the chicken lightly with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil before reheating. This adds fat that helps retain moisture and enhances the crispiness of the outer layer.

Reheating:

Once the air fryer is preheated, insert the basket with the chicken and set the timer. The reheating time can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces and the model of your air fryer. As a guideline, set the timer for 4 to 6 minutes for thicker pieces and adjust as needed for thinner slices. It is crucial to continuously monitor the chicken during the reheating process to prevent drying or overheating. You may need to turn the chicken pieces to ensure even reheating.

Final Steps:

Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding any bones. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the chicken is adequately reheated and safe to consume. Avoid covering the chicken during the reheating process, as this obstructs the airflow and hinders uniform reheating.

Optional Enhancements:

For added flavour, you can apply a sauce of your choice after a few minutes of heating. This helps maintain moisture and enhances the overall taste of the chicken. Additionally, if you are reheating chicken breasts, you can brush them with olive oil and add seasonings of your choice before air frying.

What to serve with shake and bake chicken

Shake and bake chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement the crispy and juicy chicken:

Vegetables

Air fryer green beans, roasted carrots, asparagus, cauliflower, or zucchini squash casserole are all great vegetable sides that will pair well with the chicken. These options provide a healthy and flavorful balance to the meal.

Potatoes

Baked potatoes or French fries are always a popular choice to accompany chicken. For a more elegant option, consider making a potato casserole with a creamy and cheesy sauce topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.

Rice and Noodles

For a more substantial side, rice pilaf made with vermicelli and long-grain rice is a flavorful and popular Middle Eastern dish that won't overpower the chicken. Alternatively, buttered noodles with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice are a simple and tasty option.

Salads

A refreshing and filling chef salad is a great choice, as it can be prepared ahead of time and goes well with most meals.

Remember, the key to a successful shake and bake chicken dish is achieving that perfect golden brown, crispy texture, so feel free to experiment with different sides to enhance the flavor and texture of your meal!

Frequently asked questions