Shake & Bake Italian

Here’s a simple and flavorful Shake & Bake Italian-style recipe — great for chicken or pork! This homemade version lets you skip the store-bought box while keeping the crispy, herbed coating everyone loves.

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🍗 Homemade Shake & Bake Italian Style

🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25–35 minutes

🍽️ Serves: 4

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🧂 Ingredients:

For the Coating Mix:

• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but tasty)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter) – helps with browning

Protein Options:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  or

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)

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🥣 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Set to 400°F (205°C) for chicken or 425°F (218°C) for pork chops.

2. Make the Coating Mix:

   • In a large zip-top bag or bowl, combine all coating ingredients. Mix well to distribute the oil evenly. You can store any extra mix (dry, before oil) in an airtight container.

3. Prepare the Meat:

   • Pat meat dry with paper towels. You can brush lightly with olive oil or mustard to help the coating stick, but it’s optional.

4. Shake & Bake:

   • Add meat to the bag one at a time and shake to coat fully. Press coating onto the surface to help it stick.

5. Bake:

   • Place coated pieces on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. For extra crispness, place on a wire rack.

   • Chicken: Bake 25–30 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

   • Pork: Bake 25–35 minutes until internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops.

6. Serve:
   Let rest a few minutes before serving. Pair with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

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🔄 Variations:

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

• Mix in Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs instead of plain for extra herby flavor.

• Add lemon zest to the mix for brightness.