Description
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a meal that combines the golden crunch of cheddar-coated chicken with the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked breasts. It’s the ultimate comfort food, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a winner every time.
Ingredients
To make this crispy, cheesy masterpiece, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. This helps the coating stick to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then transfer it to the cracker mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating on all sides.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Notes
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Cheese Tip: Grate your own cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Keep It Crispy: Ensure the chicken isn’t overcrowded in the baking dish to allow air circulation and maintain crispiness.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top after baking for added color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food