Description
Mouthwatering crispy cheddar chicken delivers a perfect blend of golden breadcrumbs and sharp cheddar cheese. Guaranteed to satisfy dinner cravings with minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll find this simple recipe irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 cups (470 ml) cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 cups (220 g) Ritz crackers (crushed)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsps butter (melted)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and lightly oil a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Create three separate preparation stations: first with milk, second with shredded cheddar cheese, third with crushed crackers seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly in milk, ensuring complete coverage.
- Press cheddar cheese generously onto the milk-coated chicken, making sure the cheese adheres completely to the surface.
- Roll the cheese-covered chicken in the seasoned cracker mixture, pressing gently to create an even, crispy coating.
- Arrange the breaded chicken in the prepared baking dish without overcrowding.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the coated chicken to enhance browning and flavor.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165F and the exterior turns golden and crisp.
- Allow chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from oven to help retain moisture.
- Serve immediately while the cheddar coating remains crunchy and chicken stays juicy.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
- Try different cheese varieties like parmesan or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles.
- For gluten-free option, swap crackers with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour for crispy coating.
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk beforehand to enhance tenderness and create deeper flavor penetration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 630 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 42 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 50 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg