Crispy Cheddar Chicken – Baked

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious, baked dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy coating. This recipe offers a comforting and flavorful dinner option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals. The combination of cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and butter creates a golden, crunchy crust, while keeping the chicken tender and moist inside.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the grated cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, and dried parsley.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the milk, then coat with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese coating is golden and crispy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, parmesan, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Use breaded tofu or large portobello mushroom caps as a substitute for chicken breasts.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the bread crumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. To maintain the crispy coating, you can reheat the chicken on a baking sheet or wire rack.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? You can substitute with crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even cornflakes for a crunchy texture.
3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. What can I serve with Crispy Cheddar Chicken? This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
6. Can I freeze the chicken? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked, breaded chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
7. How can I make the chicken extra crispy? For an even crispier crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but be careful not to burn the cheese.
8. Can I use non-dairy milk? Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or soy milk.
9. How can I make this dish healthier? Use less butter or substitute with olive oil for a lighter version, and opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
10. Can I use pre-grated cheese? Yes, but fresh-grated cheese tends to melt and coat the chicken better than pre-grated, which may contain anti-caking agents.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is an easy-to-make, delicious dinner that delivers on flavor and texture. With a crispy, cheesy coating and juicy chicken inside, it’s sure to be a hit with your family. Whether you stick with the original recipe or try some fun variations, this baked dish will become a weeknight staple in your meal rotation.

Print