If you are a fan of fried chicken but want to opt for a healthier alternative, then air fryer shake n bake chicken should be your go-to recipe. This dish will give you the crispy and juicy texture of fried chicken, without the unhealthy amounts of oil. Below, we will discuss everything you need to know about air fryer shake n bake chicken, from its benefits to the step-by-step guide to prepare this mouth-watering dish.
How to make air fryer shake n bake chicken quickly and easily
The first step in making air fryer shake n bake chicken is to prepare your chicken. Take some boneless chicken breasts and dip them in whisked eggs, before coating them in a mixture of Shake and Bake seasoning and breadcrumbs. Then, place the chicken in the air fryer and cook for around 10-12 minutes at 360°F, flipping halfway through. Finally, once the chicken is cooked, remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
For a healthier version of this recipe, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs and opt for skinless chicken breasts. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings to add more flavor to your chicken. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, and cumin.
If you want to make a larger batch of air fryer shake n bake chicken, you can use a wire rack to cook multiple chicken breasts at once. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and you can save time by cooking everything at once. Just make sure to leave enough space between each chicken breast to allow for proper air circulation.
The benefits of cooking chicken in an air fryer
Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a much healthier alternative to deep-frying chicken. An air fryer uses hot air to circulate around the food, which fries it to a crisp texture without the need for copious amounts of oil. In fact, air fryer chicken contains up to 75% less fat than traditional fried chicken, making it an excellent dish for those who are health-conscious. Moreover, air fryers are much more energy-efficient than traditional frying methods, so you can save money on your electricity bill in the long run.
Another benefit of cooking chicken in an air fryer is that it is a much quicker cooking method than traditional frying. Air fryers can cook chicken in as little as 20 minutes, compared to the 45 minutes or more it can take to deep-fry chicken. This makes air fryers a great option for busy weeknights when you want a quick and healthy meal. Additionally, air fryers are much easier to clean than traditional frying methods, as they don't leave behind a greasy mess. Simply wipe down the air fryer basket and you're done!
A step-by-step guide to making the perfect shake n bake chicken in an air fryer
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare air fryer shake n bake chicken:
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F.
- Whisk together some eggs in a bowl and place the Shake and Bake seasoning and breadcrumbs in another bowl.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat well with the Shake and Bake seasoning and breadcrumbs mixture.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, being sure not to overcrowd it.
- Cook the chicken for around 10-12 minutes at 360°F, flipping halfway through.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
But wait, there's more! Here are a couple of tips to take your air fryer shake n bake chicken to the next level:
- For an extra crispy coating, spray the chicken with cooking spray before placing it in the air fryer.
- Experiment with different flavors of Shake and Bake seasoning to find your favorite. Some popular options include BBQ, ranch, and garlic herb.
Now that you have the perfect recipe, it's time to enjoy your delicious air fryer shake n bake chicken!
Tips and tricks for seasoning and breading your chicken for the air fryer
One of the secrets to making perfect air fryer shake n bake chicken is in the seasoning and breading. You can customize the seasoning to give your chicken a unique flavor. Some popular seasonings that you can try include garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and dried herbs. You could also be creative with the breading by using different types of breadcrumbs like panko, cornmeal, or even crushed crackers. Dipping your chicken in different sauces after cooking will also enhance its flavor.
Another tip for seasoning your chicken is to marinate it before breading and cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it more tender. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs or experiment with different flavors like teriyaki or barbecue sauce.
When it comes to breading your chicken, it's important to make sure the coating sticks well to the meat. One way to do this is to dip the chicken in flour before dipping it in the egg mixture and then the breadcrumbs. Another trick is to spray the chicken with cooking spray before cooking to help the breading crisp up.
The best dipping sauces to pair with your air fryer shake n bake chicken
A good dipping sauce can take your air fryer shake n bake chicken to a whole new level. Some of the best dipping sauces to pair with this dish include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. You can also serve your chicken with some fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the flavors and textures.
Another great dipping sauce to try with your air fryer shake n bake chicken is garlic aioli. This creamy and garlicky sauce adds a delicious kick to the chicken. You can make your own aioli by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Alternatively, you can buy pre-made garlic aioli from the store.
If you want to make your air fryer shake n bake chicken even more flavorful, you can experiment with different seasonings and spices. For example, you can add some paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the shake n bake mixture. You can also sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top of the chicken before air frying it. These additions will give your chicken a unique and delicious taste.
Healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken with an air fryer
Air fryer shake n bake chicken is a much healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. It contains less fat, calories, and cholesterol, making it a guilt-free dish for health enthusiasts. Moreover, air fryers are versatile appliances that you can use for other healthy dishes such as roasted vegetables, fish, or tofu.
How to clean and maintain your air fryer after making shake n bake chicken
Cleaning your air fryer should be a simple process. After preparing the chicken, let the appliance cool down before unplugging and disassembling it. Remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm soapy water and a sponge or brush. If there are any stubborn stains, you can also use vinegar or baking soda. Air fryers are dishwasher safe as well, so you can easily place the parts in your dishwasher to be cleaned. It is essential to keep your air fryer clean to ensure it functions properly for years to come.
Creative ways to use leftover air fryer shake n bake chicken
If you have some leftover air fryer shake n bake chicken, there are many creative ways you can use it in your meals. You can shred the chicken and use it in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or tacos. You could also use the chicken in pasta dishes or casseroles. The possibilities are endless, and repurposing your leftovers can save you time and money in the long run.
Air fryer shake n bake chicken: perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Air fryer shake n bake chicken is an excellent dish for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. You can prepare a large batch of chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. The process of reheating the chicken in the air fryer is simple and takes just a few minutes, making it a hassle-free meal when you are short on time.
A history of shake n bake seasoning and how it became popular in the US
Shake and Bake seasoning is a type of breadcrumb mixture typically used to coat chicken before cooking. It first hit the US market in the 1960s and slowly gained popularity. The product was initially marketed as a convenient alternative to traditional battering and frying methods. In the 70s and 80s, Shake and Bake became a household name, and the company expanded its range to include other seasonings and coatings for various meats and dishes.
The science behind why air frying is a healthier cooking method compared to traditional frying
Fried food is typically high in calories, fat, and cholesterol, making it an unhealthy indulgence. Air frying is a much healthier alternative to traditional frying as it reduces the amount of oil used in cooking. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy and evenly cooked texture without the need for oil. This cooking method also reduces the formation of harmful compounds like acrylamide, which is present in fried foods.
Comparison of different types of breading for shake n bake chicken in an air fryer: panko, cornmeal, and more
When it comes to breading your air fryer shake n bake chicken, there are many options to choose from. Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice as they create a light and crispy texture. Cornmeal is another great option for those who prefer a slightly coarser texture. You could also use crushed crackers, corn flakes, or even almond flour for a healthier alternative. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can experiment with different breading combinations to find your perfect texture.
How to make gluten-free or low-carb versions of air fryer shake n bake chicken
If you have a gluten intolerance or are following a low-carb diet, you can still enjoy air fryer shake n bake chicken. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cereal instead of traditional breadcrumbs. For a low-carb version, you can use almond flour or coconut flour instead of breadcrumbs. You could also omit the breadcrumbs altogether and use a mixture of dry seasonings and a low-carb binder like parmesan cheese. With the right ingredients and substitutions, you can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising your dietary restrictions.
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