Description
Savory crispy cheddar chicken delivers a mouthwatering blend of golden, crunchy coating and tender meat that delights dinner tables. Home chefs will discover an irresistible meal promising comfort and satisfaction in every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Breading and Seasoning:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a baking sheet with cooking spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Create a flavorful coating by blending shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Pour milk into a separate bowl and thoroughly dunk each chicken breast, allowing excess to drip off.
- Transfer milk-coated chicken into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, firmly pressing the coating onto the surface to maximize adhesion and crunch.
- Carefully arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to promote even heat circulation and crispy exterior.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) and develops a golden, crisp exterior.
- Extract the chicken from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch, and serve immediately while the coating remains delightfully crunchy.
Notes
- Customize Coating for Dietary Needs: Swap panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different sharp cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan to create unique flavor profiles that complement the chicken.
- Prevent Soggy Coating: Let coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help the breading adhere better and achieve maximum crispiness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken up to the coating stage and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking, making meal prep easier and more convenient.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 525 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg