Ask The Chef
How to Make Seasoned Bread Crumbs

Q: What ingredients should you use to make seasoned bread crumbs?
A: The herbs and seasonings you will depend on what flavors you like. An all-purpose formula includes onion, thyme, parsley, and black pepper. I f you want your chicken to have an Italian influence, try oregano and garlic. Cumin and cardamom and a little lemon zest are good for a Middle Eastern dish, while cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cilantro will give a Latin flair to your meal.
Once you've decided on your seasonings, heat up a teaspoon or so of olive oil in a skillet. Sauté a teaspoon of garlic or minced onion, and then add 1/4 cup of bread crumbs. Cook them for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread crumbs are toasted. Remove the bread crumbs from the heat and toss in a bowl with a tablespoon each of your herbs and spices, plus a pinch of salt. Dried herbs may be used too, but you may have to adjust the amount as many dry herbs lose their potency over time.
Feel free to experiment with your seasonings. You can use seasoning combinations from your favorite recipes or look to magazines or specialty shops for inspiration.