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Cheddar Baked Chicken

🧀 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.
See also  Caramelized Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

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!