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Cheddar Baked Chicken

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🧀 Cheddar Baked Chicken 🍗

A perfect combination of tender chicken breasts baked to golden perfection with a crispy, cheesy crust. This easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray

📝 Directions:

1️⃣ Preheat Oven:

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

2️⃣ Prepare the Coating:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme.

3️⃣ Coat the Chicken:

  • Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast and season with salt and pepper.
  • Press each chicken breast into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat evenly.

4️⃣ Bake:

  • Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating turns golden brown and crispy.

5️⃣ Serve:

  • Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy the cheesy, crispy deliciousness! Perfect with a side of vegetables or salad for a well-rounded meal.

⏱️ Time Breakdown:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

🍴 Servings:

  • Makes 4 servings.

🔥 Calories:

  • 350 kcal per serving.

This Cheddar Baked Chicken is a quick and satisfying dish, perfect for any busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. With its crispy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress!

💡 Tips for Making the Perfect Cheddar Baked Chicken 💡

  1. Pound the Chicken Evenly:
  • To ensure the chicken breasts cook evenly, pound them to an even thickness. This prevents undercooking or overcooking certain areas.
  1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese:
  • Freshly shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese will melt better and give the coating a crispier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
  1. Customize the Seasonings:
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a little cayenne for heat or swap thyme for rosemary for a different flavor profile.
  1. Use Panko for Extra Crispiness:
  • For an even crispier texture, substitute regular breadcrumbs with Panko breadcrumbs.
  1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken:
  • Bake the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can dry out the chicken.
  1. Rest the Chicken:
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat.
  1. Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil:
  • A light drizzle of olive oil over the top of the coated chicken before baking can enhance the golden color and crispiness of the crust.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

  • Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

  • You can prepare the chicken with the mayo and breadcrumb coating a few hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

3. What should I serve with Cheddar Baked Chicken?

  • This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  • Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.

5. How do I reheat Cheddar Baked Chicken?

  • To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

6. Can I use other types of cheese?

  • Absolutely! Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella, Gouda, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor.

7. Can I air-fry the chicken instead of baking it?

  • Yes, air-frying is a great option for an extra crispy crust. Cook the coated chicken in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

8. Can I use yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

  • Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will still help the breadcrumb mixture stick and adds a tangy flavor.

9. How can I tell if the chicken is done?

  • The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer for accuracy.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

  • To add some heat, mix cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce like buffalo sauce or sriracha.

These tips and FAQs ensure your Cheddar Baked Chicken turns out crispy, cheesy, and delicious every time!

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