🧀 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:
🔥 Calories:
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 💡
- Pound the Chicken Evenly:
- To ensure the chicken breasts cook evenly, pound them to an even thickness. This prevents undercooking or overcooking certain areas.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese:
- Freshly shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese will melt better and give the coating a crispier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
- 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.
- Use Panko for Extra Crispiness:
- For an even crispier texture, substitute regular breadcrumbs with Panko breadcrumbs.
- 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.
- Rest the Chicken:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat.
- 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.
❓ 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!