Shake n Bake is a popular coating mix that has been around for decades. It is commonly used to give chicken and pork a delicious crispy texture with minimal effort. However, many people wonder if they can use eggs with Shake n Bake to enhance the flavor or texture of their dishes.
In this article, we will explore the possibility of using eggs with Shake n Bake, along with some tips and recipes to help you achieve the best results.
Understanding Shake n Bake
Shake n Bake is a pre-packaged mixture of seasoned bread crumbs that you use as a breading for meats such as chicken and pork. It was first introduced by Kraft Foods in 1965 and has since become a staple in many households across America. The idea behind Shake n Bake is to make it easy for home cooks to create tasty and crispy meals without having to worry about messy frying techniques.
Using it is quite simple; you coat the meat pieces in the mixture, shake off any excess, and bake them in an oven until golden brown. The seasoned breadcrumbs offer a convenient way to add flavor and texture to your meals while also keeping them moist during baking.
The Importance of Eggs in Cooking and Baking
Eggs are a staple ingredient used in cooking and baking around the world for good reasons. Eggs not only add richness and flavor to your dishes but provide important nutrition too! They are high in protein, vitamins D, B6, B12, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium.
In cooking and baking specifically, eggs act as binders that hold ingredients together; they thicken sauces or custards when heated; they aerate cakes or soufflés when beaten; they emulsify ingredients like mayonnaise; they even provide structure for breads or omelets!
Using Eggs with Shake n Bake
The answer to whether you can use eggs with Shake n Bake is yes! In fact, adding eggs to the mix can provide some tasty benefits. Eggs can help the breading adhere better and create a delicious crust as well as add flavor and moisture. The extra protein will also make the dish more filling.
When you decide to use eggs with Shake n Bake, you will need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. The eggs can cause the coating to brown faster than usual, so check on your food periodically to ensure it doesn’t burn or overcook.
Another consideration when using eggs with Shake n Bake is that it can pose a risk for foodborne illness like salmonella if not handled properly. Here are some essential tips for safe egg handling:
- Always wash your hands before and after handling raw eggs.
- Use only fresh, clean eggs.
- Discard any cracked or visibly dirty eggs.
- Store eggs in their original carton in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
- Do not let raw egg mixture come into contact with other foods or surfaces in your kitchen.
Tips for Using Eggs with Shake n Bake
Here are several tips to help you use eggs with Shake n Bake effectively:
- Use a whisk or fork to beat the egg before adding it to the breading mixture. This will ensure that all ingredients are well-mixed together.
- If you’re concerned about raw egg touching your hands, wear gloves while prepping your meal.
- A ratio of one beaten egg per half cup of Shake n Bake should suffice in most recipes. However, feel free to experiment and adjust this based on your personal preferences!
- If you’re looking for an even richer flavor, try mixing a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the beaten egg mixture before coating your meat.
Specific Recipes Using Eggs with Shake n Bake
Here’s a simple recipe using Shake n Bake and eggs for baked chicken:
Simple Egg Baked Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box Shake n Bake Original Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix
- 2 eggs, beaten
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204˚C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Pour the Shake n Bake mix into a shallow dish and set it aside.
- Beat the eggs in a separate dish until well mixed.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, then into the Shake n Bake mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Place the chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet, and give them a light spritz of cooking oil spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through or internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tips:
- For even crispier results, use thin-sliced chicken cutlets instead of full-sized boneless breasts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Using Eggs with Shake n’ Bake
Here are some common questions that come up when considering using eggs with Shake n Bake:
- Do I need to use eggs with Shake n Bake?
No! You can use water instead of eggs if you prefer an egg-free recipe.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time by coating your chicken in the breading mixture and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using eggs with Shake n Bake can be a delicious way to add extra flavor and moisture to your favorite meats while also providing important nutrition from eggs. However, it’s essential to handle raw eggs properly and cook food safely at the right temperature to avoid illness risk.
Remember these tips when using eggs with Shake n Bake: use fresh ingredients, beat your egg before adding to the mixture, and adjust cooking time accordingly. For best results, cross your fingers and hope that your meal comes out perfectly golden brown and delicious!
Q&A
Q: Can I use eggs with Shake n Bake?
A: Yes, you can. However, it is not required to use eggs with Shake n Bake. The coating mixture already contains a blend of spices and seasonings that will stick to the chicken without the need of egg wash.
Q: How should I use eggs with Shake n Bake?
A: If you choose to use eggs with Shake n Bake, start by whisking an egg in a bowl. Then, dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture before coating them with Shake n Bake. This will help create a thicker and more golden crust.
Q: Will using eggs make my chicken taste better with Shake n Bake?
A: Using eggs is a matter of personal preference when using Shake n Bake. While it can create a thicker and crispier crust, it may not necessarily improve the taste of your chicken. The choice is yours!
Q: Are there any other alternatives to using eggs with Shake n Bake?
A: Absolutely! Some people like to substitute egg wash for milk or buttermilk. This will help tenderize the chicken and keep it moist while also helping to adhere the coating mixture in the same way as using an egg wash would do. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!
