Air fryer Shake and Bake Chicken

This shake and bake chicken in air fryer is as easy as it can get. Crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, it is a fantastic main.

I love fried chicken. I mean, who doesn’t? Breaded chicken is just so delicious. 

But oven frying it takes so much more time.

With air fryer, I not only make these with low oil but it is also so tasty.

My teen just loves it. It also needs no marination or prior prep. It’s a perfect recipe for beginners or newbies.

You will also love air fryer chicken and potatoes, air fryer chicken parmesan, air fryer buffalo chicken tenders, fried chicken drumsticks, air fryer bacon wrapped chicken, air fryer chicken leg quarters.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quicker: Takes less time than baking in the oven and much less messy than deep frying.

Healthier Option: This recipe uses lesser oil.

Perfect for Any Occasion: A casual weekday dinner or a special weekend treat, this is the perfect chicken main for you.

Kid Friendly: I can vouch for this. My family including my teen just love it.

Ingredients

1. Chicken: I have used boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. You can also use thighs or drumsticks here.

2. Shake and Bake: I have used Original shake and bake seasoning mix. You will need less than half of this mix for 1 lb. of chicken breast.

3. Olive oil: It helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken and also keeps it moist.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Use milk and egg: Instead of oil, use 1 tbsp. milk and 1 egg to make an egg wash to dip the chicken breast in. 

2. For dairy-free version: Use plant-based milk or just olive oil. Also ensure that your breading does not have any cheese.

3. Spicy: Add some cayenne or chilli flakes to your shake and bake for more heat.

Serving Suggestions

1. Salad: Shake and bake chicken is delicious with a hearty cucumber salad, a lovely coleslaw or some air fried vegetables.

2. Potatoes: These go great with air fryer potato wedges, breakfast potatoes, smashed potatoes or baked potato.

3. Dinner rolls: Buttery dinner rolls are a nice side to the chicken.

4. Pasta: This shake n bake chicken in air fryer pairs so well with pumpkin pasta or aglio e olio.

5. Dips: You can also slice it and serve it with a dip of choice in your appetiser platter.

6. Fries: Regular fries or sweet potato fries pair so well with this shake and bake chicken.

7. Corn on the cob: I personally love this combo.

Instructions

Take chicken breasts and pat them dry.

If they are unevenly thick you can flatten them slightly using a mallet.

You can also butterfly them for faster cooking. 

Take shake and bake seasoning in a ziplock or bag. You can also take it in a shallow plate. You can also prepare your own by mixing seasonings with breadcrumbs.

Take olive oil in a spray bottle or a bowl.

Lightly brush the chicken breasts with oil and then place them in the ziplock one by one. Shake the bag till the chicken breast is well coated.

Take it out and keep it in a plate.

Air fryer Instructions

Preheat air fryer at 360F or 180C for 5 minutes.

Spray olive oil in the basket and place the breaded breasts in the air fryer basket.

I used a parchment paper to line the basket.

Spray the chicken with oil and let it air fry at 360F or 180C for about 16 to 18 minutes depending upon the thickness of your chicken breast.

Midway, flip the chicken breast and spray with oil. This enables even cooking.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is done.

Chicken is done when the internal temperature in its thickest part is 165F.

Now take out the shake and bake chicken in air fryer and allow to rest for 2-3 minutes.

Slice and serve hot. Enjoy.

Oven Instructions

If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake these in the oven.

Preheat oven to 400F or 200C.

Take a baking tray and line with parchment paper.

Lay coated chicken breasts keeping space in between.

Bake for 30-40 minutes at 400F or 200C depending upon how thick your chicken breasts are. Don't forget to spray them with oil and flip them midway.

Serve your shake and bake chicken hot.

For a different take, you can also try these instant pot lamb chops.

Expert Tips

1. Don't Overcrowd: Ensure that your chicken breasts have enough space around them for circulation of air.

2. Flip Mid Way: Flipping chicken breast midway helps it cook evenly and brown evenly on both sides.

3. Use meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature of 165F.

4. Spray with Oil: Spraying breaded chicken breast with oil while air frying helps in giving it a golden deep fried appearance.

FAQs

Can I store leftover shake and bake? 

Yes, you can. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. This can be done only for the breading that was not in the ziplock.

How do I reheat shake and bake chicken in air fryer?

Reheat at 360F or 180C for 3-4 minutes or till heated through and crunchy.

Can I freeze Shake and Bake Air fryer Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months in a freezer proof container.

Here's the recipe card:

📖 Recipe Card