Description
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or planning a hearty weeknight meal, this Crispy Cheddar Chicken recipe delivers comfort food with a delicious twist. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are encased in a crunchy, cheesy coating that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Want to take it over the top? Drizzle it with a warm, creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream—optional, but highly recommended! This dish is a guaranteed family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare Dredging Stations: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a second bowl, place the shredded cheddar cheese. In a third bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Pound the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even ½-inch thickness for more even cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first in the egg mixture, then press into the shredded cheddar, and finally coat with the seasoned cracker crumbs, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well.
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared dish. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top to help with crisping.
Step 6: Bake: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Make the Sauce (Optional): While the chicken bakes, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and warmed through.
Step 8: Serve: Serve the crispy cheddar chicken topped with a spoonful of the creamy sauce (if using) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a guaranteed hit because it’s:
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can nail this recipe.
- Kid-friendly: The crispy, cheesy coating and mild flavor appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile: Serve it with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.
- Comforting: It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
- Quick: From start to finish, this recipe can be on your table in under an hour.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy and balanced meal.
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or a cheesy potato casserole for a comforting side dish.
- Offer a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the chicken.
- For a complete meal, serve with a side of mac and cheese.
- Top with the optional creamy sauce for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Tips:
- For even cooking, make sure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness.
- Use a high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; leave some space between the chicken breasts for even crisping.
- If the cracker crumbs start to brown too quickly, loosely tent the baking dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- To make ahead, prepare the chicken through the coating step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutrition Information: (approximate, without sauce)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 600mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delightful, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken and a crunchy, cheesy coating makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you choose to add the creamy sauce or enjoy it as is, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the simple steps and delicious results of this comforting classic!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe
Q1: Can I use different cheese other than cheddar?
A: Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the other flavors in the recipe.
Q2: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
A: If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, you can substitute with other types of crackers like saltines, club crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers or almond flour. The key is to ensure the crumbs are fine enough to create a good coating.
Q3: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To make this recipe healthier, consider using whole wheat crackers or almond flour for the coating. You can also bake the chicken on a wire rack to allow excess fat to drip off. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a cooking spray instead. Opting for low-fat cheddar cheese and serving with plenty of vegetables can further enhance the nutritional value.
Q4: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken through the coating step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Make sure to store the coated chicken in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions.
Q5: What are some good variations of this recipe?
A: There are several ways to customize this recipe! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker crumbs for a spicy kick, or mix in some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. Another variation is to add a layer of ham or bacon between the chicken and the cheese for an even richer dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
