Crispy Cheddar Chicken – Baked!

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to impress, Crispy Cheddar Chicken is the perfect choice. This baked dish combines tender chicken breasts with a crunchy, cheesy coating for a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a special family dinner. Each serving contains approximately 400 kcal, making it a satisfying yet relatively light option.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 4 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing

How to Make

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Place the flour in a shallow dish.
• In another shallow dish, beat the eggs and mix in the Dijon mustard.
• In a third shallow dish, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. Coat the Chicken:

• Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
• Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
• Press each chicken breast into the cheddar cheese mixture, coating well and pressing the mixture onto the chicken to adhere.

4. Bake the Chicken:

• Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
• Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help with browning.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

5. Serve:

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your Oven-Baked Cheddar Crusted Chicken!

Helpful Tips

• Cheese Coating: Ensure the cheddar cheese is finely shredded to help it adhere better to the chicken and create a more uniform coating.
• Browning: Lightly spraying the chicken with cooking spray or drizzling with olive oil helps achieve a golden, crispy coating.
• Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese Substitution: If you prefer, you can substitute the sharp cheddar with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorites.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kick.
• Herb Addition: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added to the cheese mixture for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this crispy cheddar chicken with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Dipping Sauce: Pair with a honey mustard sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple garlic aioli for dipping.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 30g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love this Crispy Cheddar Chicken, you might enjoy these similar recipes:

1. Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A similar dish with a Parmesan cheese coating, offering a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

2. Chicken Cordon Bleu: Chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked to perfection.

3. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings: Juicy chicken wings coated in a garlic Parmesan sauce, perfect for a party or game day.

4. Cheddar Chicken Tenders: Chicken tenders coated in a cheddar cheese and breadcrumb mixture, perfect for kids and adults alike.

5. Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Pork chops coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked until crispy and golden.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

2. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

• Make sure the chicken is patted dry before coating, and press the cheese mixture firmly onto the chicken. Using a cooking spray or drizzle of olive oil helps the coating adhere better.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

4. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

• You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or leave it out if preferred. The mustard adds a slight tanginess but is not essential.

5. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

• Yes, you can coat the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. This can help the flavors meld and save time when you’re ready to cook.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The coating should be golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken and crunchy, cheesy coating, it’s sure to become a family favorite. This baked version is healthier than frying and just as satisfying. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and happy cooking!

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