Introduction
Crispy Baked Chicken with Cheddar is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines juicy chicken with a golden, crunchy coating and rich melted cheddar cheese. Baked instead of fried, this recipe delivers great flavor and texture with less oil and minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet.
In a shallow bowl, combine crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with cheddar cheese and seasonings.
Pour milk into a separate bowl.
Dip each chicken breast into the milk, then coat thoroughly in the cheese and crumb mixture.
Place coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the chicken.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken is golden, crispy, and cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Description
This dish features tender chicken with a crunchy, cheesy coating that bakes to a beautiful golden color. The cheddar melts into the crust, adding rich flavor while keeping the chicken juicy and satisfying.
Tips
Pat chicken dry before coating for better crispiness.
Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor.
Place chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet for extra crunch.
Let chicken rest briefly after baking to keep it juicy.
Variations
Spicy Cheddar Chicken: Add cayenne or chili powder to the coating.
Garlic Cheddar: Add minced garlic or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Parmesan Mix: Replace half the cheddar with Parmesan cheese.
Air Fryer Version: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Herb Cheddar: Add dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
Correction
If chicken is dry: Reduce baking time or cover loosely with foil.
If coating isn’t crispy: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
If cheese browns too fast: Lower oven rack position.
Enjoy
Enjoy Crispy Baked Chicken with Cheddar alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This easy, cheesy dish is perfect for a comforting homemade meal everyone will love.