Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly.
- Flavorful Crunch: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates a satisfying crispy crust.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy coating appeals to picky eaters, making it a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip and Coat: Pour the milk into another shallow bowl. Dip each chicken breast in the milk, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, ensuring a good coat on all sides.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve while hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the coating for an aromatic twist.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
How can I ensure the coating sticks well to the chicken?
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before dipping into the milk and coating mixture. This helps the coating adhere better.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What sides pair well with Crispy Cheddar Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before baking. This can help the coating adhere better.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
Crushed Ritz crackers or regular breadcrumbs can be used as alternatives to panko.
How can I make the dish lower in fat?
Use reduced-fat cheese and skim milk to lower the fat content.
Is there a dipping sauce that complements this dish?
A creamy ranch or honey mustard sauce pairs well with Crispy Cheddar Chicken.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Chicken offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Its simplicity and deliciousness are sure to make it a household favorite.
Crispy Cheddar Chicken
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a flavorful, family-friendly recipe featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a cheesy, golden crust made with sharp cheddar and panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip and Coat: Pour milk into another shallow bowl. Dip each chicken breast in the milk, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and cheese mixture.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
