Introduction
Looking for a new way to elevate your chicken dinner game?
This Crispy Cheddar Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crunchy Texture: The crispy breadcrumb and cheddar cheese coating adds the perfect crunch.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and a creamy sauce brings bold and comforting flavors.
Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry and fridge.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, place the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the milk into a third shallow bowl.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the milk, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, press the chicken into the shredded cheddar cheese, pressing firmly to adhere as much cheese as possible. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even layer.
Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the tops of the chicken to help achieve a golden crust.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The coating should be golden and crispy.
Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken bakes, prepare the creamy sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Do not boil.
Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve the chicken topped with a generous spoonful of the creamy sauce and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 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: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together 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.
Tips for Success
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that may prevent it from melting properly. For the best results, shred your cheddar cheese at home.
Ensure Even Coating: Press the cheese and breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure an even, crispy crust.
Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.
Pairing Suggestions
Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad.
Starches: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side of rice pilaf.
Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread or a dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken without the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and offer a slightly richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? You can substitute with a homemade roux made from butter, flour, and chicken broth for a fresher option.
How do I keep the coating from falling off? Pat the chicken dry before coating, and press the cheese and breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them stick.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
The cheesy, crunchy coating paired with the rich, creamy sauce makes this recipe a standout choice for any meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Try it today and savor the crispy, cheesy deliciousness!