Can You Use Chicken Shake and Bake on Pork? A Comprehensive Guide

Shake and bake coatings are a quick and easy way to add flavor and crunch to pork, chicken, and other meats. But can you use a chicken shake and bake coating on pork? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can use a chicken shake and bake on pork chops, pork tenderloin, or other cuts of pork

An Overview of Shake and Bake Coatings

Shake and bake coatings have been around since the 1960s when General Mills first introduced the product The concept is simple – shake seasoning and crumbs together in a bag with meat to coat it, and then bake it to perfection Most shake and bake coatings contain a blend of breadcrumbs, flour, salt, spices, and dried herbs. Some versions also contain cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other seasonings.

While there are shake and bake coatings made specifically for chicken or pork, they are quite interchangeable. The main difference between most chicken and pork versions is that chicken shake and bakes tend to use more pepper, while pork varieties contain sage or other herbs. However, using a chicken coating on pork or vice versa will still result in a flavorful, crispy crust.

Benefits of Using a Chicken Shake and Bake on Pork

There are several advantages to using a chicken shake and bake on pork:

• Convenience – Chicken shake and bake coatings are readily available in most grocery stores. Using a product you likely already have on hand makes quick meal prep even simpler.

• Crunchy Texture – Shake and bake coatings are designed to form a crispy, crunchy crust around meat. This adds fun texture that pairs nicely with the juicy pork interior.

• Flavor – Chicken shake and bake mixes contain an array of spices and herbs including garlic, onion, paprika, oregano, thyme, and more. These seasonings infuse the pork with savory flavor.

• Consistency – Using a pre-made shake and bake takes the guesswork out of breading pork chops. You’ll get evenly coated, seasoned meat every time.

• Kid-Friendly – The crunchy coating and mild seasoning of chicken shake and bake makes it an ideal way to introduce kids to pork.

So while chicken and pork shake and bakes aren’t identical, chicken coatings work extremely well on pork, adding crunch and zesty flavor.

How to Use Chicken Shake and Bake on Pork

Using a chicken shake and bake coating on pork is a very simple process:

Ingredients:

• Pork chops, tenderloin, or other cuts
• Chicken shake and bake coating
• Oil for pan or oven

Instructions:

1. Pat pork dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Pour shake and bake coating into a gallon zip top bag.
3. Working with 1-2 pieces of pork at a time, place them in the bag and shake to coat evenly.
4. Remove pork from bag and arrange on a baking sheet or plate. Discard used coating.
5. If desired, spray tops of breaded pork with oil.
6. Bake pork at 400°F, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crust is crispy, about 15-25 minutes.
7. For added flavor, let pork rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the zesty crunch!

The shake and bake method also works great for pan frying or air frying. Just adjust cook times as needed. Chicken shake and bake truly is a fast and flavorful match for pork!

Tips for Getting the Best Results

• For optimal crunch, use fresh unopened shake and bake. Older, stale coating may not adhere or crisp as well.

• Cut pork into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.

• Shake the bag vigorously to distribute the coating. Make sure all surfaces of the pork are coated.

• Arrange breaded pork in a single layer on the pan so the crust gets crispy.

• An instant read thermometer should read 145°F for perfectly juicy pork.

• Letting pork rest after cooking allows juices to reabsorb for moist, tender meat.

• Play around with zig-zagging sauce over the cooked pork or serve it on the side for a pop of flavor. Barbecue sauce, plum sauce, and garlic aioli are all tasty pairings.

With just a few easy steps, a chicken shake and bake coating gives pork a major crunch and flavor upgrade. This technique minimizes dirty dishes and hands-on time so you can get a fulfilling meal on the table fast. Both kids and adults will devour this zesty, crispy baked pork. Using chicken shake and bake on pork cuts is a great way to add excitement to a weeknight dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use an original (pork) shake and bake on chicken?

Yes, absolutely! While chicken and pork shake and bakes are slightly different, they are interchangeable. An original or pork shake and bake will give chicken the same crunchy texture and bold seasoning as a chicken coating would.

Does shake and bake need egg?

No, shake and bake coatings do not require egg. The flour, spices, and crumbs are all you need. However, some people like to dip pork in egg before shake and bake for extra adhesion and crunch. This is optional.

Can you bake shake and bake pork chops from frozen?

You can absolutely bake frozen shake and bake pork chops! Just allow 10-15 extra minutes of cooking time. It’s best to arrange frozen breaded chops in a single layer on a pan so they crisp up evenly.

Is bake better than fry for shake and bake?

Baking is considered the healthier cooking method since it requires little to no oil. However, pan frying in just a tablespoon or two of oil makes the coating extra crispy. Both baking and frying work well, so choose your preferred technique!

How long do you bake shake and bake pork chops?

In a 400°F oven, bake shake and bake pork chops for 15-25 minutes flipping once, until cooked through and crust is browned and crispy. Use an instant read thermometer to confirm chops reach 145°F internally.

Chicken shake and bake coatings are a quick and convenient way to add crunchy flavor to pork chops, tenderloin, or any cut. The mild spices and herbs pair deliciously with pork’s natural flavors. Follow the simple preparation and cooking method for bake-fried pork the whole family will love.