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a plateful of homemade shake n' bake chicken made in the air fryer on a metal plate with some ketchup.
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5 from 3 votes

Homemade Shake 'n Bake Chicken (Air Fryer Version)

Experience the nostalgia of classic Shake 'n Bake with a modern twist! These homemade air-fryer chicken drumsticks boast a crunchy, flavorful exterior reminiscent of your favorite childhood dinners. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, each bite offers a crispy outer layer that gives way to tender, juicy chicken within.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 432kcal
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels.
  • In a bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, flour, cornstarch, and spices to make the homemade Shake 'n Bake mix. Transfer the homemade mix into the zip-top bag.
    process shots showing how to make shake n' bake chicken.
  • Add a few drumsticks into the bag, seal it, and shake until the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the mix. Repeat this process until all drumsticks are coated.
    process shots showing how to make shake n' bake chicken.
  • Place the coated drumsticks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching; this may need to be done in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Lightly spray the drumsticks with cooking spray. This will help to achieve a nice golden color.
    process shots showing how to make shake n' bake chicken.
  • Cook the drumsticks in the air fryer for about 10 minutes, then flip them over, apply another light spray of cooking oil, and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
    process shots showing how to make shake n' bake chicken.
  • Let the drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  1. Chicken Variation: This homemade Shake 'n Bake mix works well with other cuts of chicken too, like thighs or wings. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
  2. Storage: Store any leftover Shake 'n Bake mix in an airtight container for up to a month.
  3. Cooking Spray: Don't skip the light spray of cooking oil on the drumsticks; it aids in achieving a crispy, golden exterior.
  4. Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure chicken pieces aren't touching in the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and crispiness all around.
  5. Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 432kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 139mg | Sodium: 360mg | Potassium: 503mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 951IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 4mg