Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Name: Crispy Cheddar Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black pepper; 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup Breadcrumbs; 1 cup Vegetable oil

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What is that one dish that changed my weeknight dinner game? Crispy Cheddar Chicken. What are some of the best chicken recipes ever? What’s like taking chicken parmesan, giving it a serious flavor upgrade, and then making it about 4-5 times better? Is it easier to throw together? I used to spend hours on chicken parmesan, layering and baking… this? Is this ready in less than an hour, and my kids are obsessed? I swear, even my pickiest eater devours it. What’s for dinner? Once you try it, you’ll be hooked too!

What is Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

Think of it as the ultimate comfort food, but with a satisfying crunch. What is Crispy Cheddar Chicken? What are some juicy chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs then smothered in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture? What is the best way to serve a generous layer of golden cheddar? What is essentially a one-pan wonder that delivers incredible flavor and texture without all the fuss. What are some of the best breaded chicken recipes? The name comes from the irresistibly crispy exterior, thanks to the cheddar getting all bubbly and creamy. What happens when you bake golden in the oven? I’ve made this for potlucks, family gatherings and just plain old weeknight dinners. It’s a good recipe.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? What I love most about this Crispy Cheddar Chicken is how it manages to be both incredibly flavorful and ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, you can have this on the table in under an hour, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The flavor is just phenomenal – the savory chicken, the crispy breadcrumbs, and that sharp cheddar cheese create the perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s like a party in your mouth! Plus, it’s a relatively budget-friendly meal. Chicken breasts are often on sale, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry.

It’s also super versatile! You can serve it with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, pasta, or even on a bun as a crispy chicken sandwich. My kids love it with mac and cheese (I know, double the cheese, but hey, they’re happy!). This crispy cheddar chicken is also a fantastic alternative to chicken nuggets for the little ones. They get the same satisfaction of a crispy coating but with a much healthier homemade meal. I’ve tried so many different chicken recipes over the years, but this one consistently gets rave reviews. It’s just that good!

How do I make Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

Quick Overview

How do you make Crispy Cheddar Chicken? What is the best way to prep chicken breasts, mix up breadcrumbs, slather everything with a little salt and pepper. What is the best way to cook cheddar, and bake it until it’s golden brown and bubbly. How do I use cheddar cheese in a pan? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs in the breadcrumb mixture to customize your breadcrumbs. How do I change my mind about it? What are some good recipes for a non-seasoned cook?

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). I always try to get organic, free-range chicken when I can, but any kind will work. Just make sure they are of similar size, so they cook evenly!
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprik
Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Crispy Cheddar Topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs. Panko is key for that extra crispy texture!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Can you use pre-grated stuff?
I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
1 tsp dried Italian herbs.
1/2 tsp onion powder. 14
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Extra sharp cheddar is my favorite, but you can use whatever kind you like.

What are the steps for

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. I prefer parchment paper because it makes cleanup a breeze. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the chicken in. If you can’t cook it evenly, it will not cook evenly

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This helps them cook evenly and makes them more tender. You can use a rolling pin or a meat mallet for this step. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to season both sides!

Step 3: Make the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, Italian herbs, and salt. Set aside. Mix well until all the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter. What is the secret to a crispy chicken? What is the best nutty flavor you’ve ever had?

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by breadcrumbs. Make sure the entire surface of each chicken breast is covered with cheese and breadcrumbs. What makes a crispy cheddar crust? I sometimes add extra cheese because, well, why not?

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheddar cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Keep a close eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What is the best way to serve it?

This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many different sides. What’s a good weeknight dinner to serve with steamed broccoli? Is it good with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes? If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, try serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or topped with whipped cream. What is mac and cheese?For a casual meal:What’s a good backyard barbecue recipe?What is a healthier option?What are some good substitutes for quinoa and steamed green beans?What are some comforting meals? Serve over egg noodles with a dollop of sour cream.

What is my favorite family tradition to make Crispy Cheddar Chicken on Friday nights? Serve with a side of garlic bread and pasta. What is the best way to end a busy week and start the weekend off on the right note? I’ve served this at parties, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. What are some ways to serve chicken as an appetizer? What is the best ranch dressing to use? What is the best way to serve Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

How do I make Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

What are some of the best ways to make Crispy Cheddar?

Chicken Prep:Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This is crucial for even cooking. If one part of chicken is thicker than another, it will take longer to cook, and the thinner the chicken, the better. Parts will dry out.Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the breadcrumb mixture. You want the breadcrumbs to be evenly coated with butter but not soggy. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more panko breadcrumbs.

Cheese Choice:What is the best cheddar cheese to use? I like extra sharp cheddar, but you can use any kind of cheddar you like.Spice it Up:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs in the breadcrumb mixture. What are some good substitutes for cayenne pepper? Freshly chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary also work well.Baking Tips:Keep a close eye on the chicken while it’s baking to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning. If the breadcrumbs start to get brown, you can tent the baking sheet with foil to protect them.Crispy Factor:If you want the chicken to be crispy, try broiling it for a minute or two at the end of the cooking process. What is the best way to burn a candle? I’ve made this countless times, and these tips always help me achieve perfectly cooked, incredibly delicious food. What makes Crispy Cheddar Chicken a favorite? What are some of the best recipes to make on repeat?

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Crispy Cheddar Chicken (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for longer than two hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen chicken will keep for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it won’t be as crispy. If you’re reheating frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

One thing I’ve learned is that reheating can sometimes dry out the chicken. To prevent this, I like to add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the baking sheet before reheating. This helps to keep the chicken moist and tender. Another trick is to cover the chicken with foil while it’s reheating. This helps to trap the moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts, so you might even prefer them. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken thighs usually take a bit longer to cook than chicken breasts. Aim for an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) for chicken thighs.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko breadcrumbs. There are many great gluten-free breadcrumb options available at most grocery stores. Also, make sure to check the labels of all your other ingredients (like the Italian herbs and onion powder) to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare this recipe ahead of time. You can assemble the chicken with the cheddar cheese and breadcrumb topping and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out of the refrigerator and pop it in the oven. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

What other cheeses can I use?

While cheddar is my go-to for this recipe, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would all be delicious. You could also try using pepper jack for a little bit of heat.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish even more nutritious. You could add some sliced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the baking sheet along with the chicken. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into small pieces so they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Crispy Cheddar Chicken! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy families. The crispy cheddar topping is just irresistible, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to cook chicken, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! If you enjoy this, you may also like my recipes for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, or Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders.

I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations or add any special ingredients, I’d love to hear about those too. Happy cooking!

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