Enjoy this deliciously crispy, cheesy chicken that’s bursting with flavor! With a crunchy cheddar crust and tender chicken inside, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Milk.
- Bowl 3: Cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and crushed Ritz crackers mixed together.
2️⃣ Coat the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Dip into the milk, ensuring the entire piece is moistened.
- Press into the cheese and cracker mixture, coating well on all sides.
3️⃣ Arrange for Baking:
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the chicken to enhance crispiness.
4️⃣ Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5️⃣ Serve:
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheddar Chicken
- For Extra Crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers.
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or your favorite cheese blend.
- Thin Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker, more uniform cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~35 g
- Fat: ~20 g
- Carbohydrates: ~20 g
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines cheesy goodness with a crispy crust for a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Serve it with love and enjoy every bite.