Shake N’ Bake Barbecue Chicken: A Flavorful Family Favorite

I can still picture it: summer evenings, the smell of barbecue wafting from the oven, and my mom pulling out a pan of golden-brown, crispy chicken. It wasn’t fancy, but it was always a hit – Shake N’ Bake Barbecue Chicken. This recipe brings back all those happy memories, and I’m excited to share how you can create this comforting dish for your family.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 7
• Yield: 7 chicken breasts
• Dietary Type: Varies (depending on BBQ sauce ingredients – check for gluten, etc.)

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce (or use a different flavor of Kraft BBQ Sauce)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 3⁄4 cup Original Shake-n-Bake
• 3⁄4 cup dry breadcrumbs (use only dry breadcrumbs for this)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 7 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Equipment Needed

• 15 x 10-inch baking sheet
• Small bowl
• Shallow dish
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and position the oven rack to the lowest setting.
2. Grease a 15 x 10-inch baking sheet. This prevents sticking and helps the chicken get evenly browned.
3. In a small bowl, combine the Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce with the Dijon mustard. Mix well until thoroughly combined. The mustard adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
4. In a shallow dish, combine the Original Shake-n-Bake coating mix with the dry breadcrumbs, garlic powder, seasoning salt, and fresh ground black pepper. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. The dry breadcrumbs are crucial for the right texture – avoid using fresh or soft breadcrumbs.
5. Using a pastry brush, liberally coat all sides of the chicken breasts with the barbecue sauce mixture, using up all of the sauce. This ensures the coating adheres properly and infuses the chicken with flavor. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies!
6. Next, dredge each chicken breast in the crumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere. Discard any remaining crumb mixture after coating. This prevents cross-contamination and ensures the coating stays fresh and crispy.
7. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of allowing it to crisp up.
8. Bake for approximately 25 minutes. Baking time for regular-sized breasts should not exceed 25 minutes to prevent them from drying out. For extra-large, thick breasts, allow an additional 5 minutes of cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Marinating for Extra Flavor: For a more intense barbecue flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the barbecue sauce and mustard mixture for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator before coating and baking.
• Adding a Touch of Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch or more of cayenne pepper to the dry coating mixture or directly into the barbecue sauce.
• Achieving Maximum Crispness: For extra crispy chicken, lightly spray the coated chicken breasts with cooking oil before baking.
• Breadcrumb Boost: If you want even more crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs mixed with the regular dry breadcrumbs. They offer a lighter, airier texture.
• Don’t Overbake: The biggest mistake is overbaking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Shake N’ Bake Barbecue Chicken hot from the oven with your favorite sides. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	192 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	22 g	12%
Total Fat	2.5 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.6 g	2%
Cholesterol	68.4 mg	22%
Sodium	331.1 mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	11.2 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	1.6 g	6%
Protein	29.3 g	58%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check the label of your Shake N’ Bake and barbecue sauce to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
• Different Barbecue Sauces: Experiment with different flavors of Kraft BBQ Sauce or your favorite brand to create unique flavor profiles. Honey barbecue, hickory smoke, or sweet and spicy are all great options.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture for an extra kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the dry breadcrumb mixture for a more complex flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use thick slices of halloumi cheese or firm tofu instead of chicken, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for quicker cooking and even coating, you can use bone-in pieces. Adjust the baking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: What if I don’t have Shake N’ Bake?
A: You can create a similar coating by combining breadcrumbs, flour, and your favorite spices. A ratio of 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup flour, and 1-2 teaspoons of spices like garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder works well.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can coat the chicken breasts with the barbecue sauce and crumb mixture and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Avoid overbaking by using a meat thermometer and checking the internal temperature. Marinating the chicken beforehand also helps to keep it moist.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with this chicken?
A: Classic sides like mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, coleslaw, baked beans, and green salad are all excellent choices.

Final Thoughts

Shake N’ Bake Barbecue Chicken is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its crispy coating and flavorful barbecue sauce make it a crowd-pleaser every time. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different barbecue sauces and seasonings. Don’t be afraid to get creative and share your feedback! Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or your favorite craft beer for a truly complete meal. Happy cooking!