Description
This Crispy Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and aromatic spices, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, delicious meal perfect for families looking for a crispy yet tender chicken option without frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it is coated completely. Then dredge the chicken in the cheddar breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres firmly.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter evenly over each piece to enhance crispiness.
- Cook Until Done: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is a golden, crispy crust.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the coating mixture.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy.
- Use melted butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor and crispier crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
