Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 1 cup, crushed)
1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional Cream Sauce:
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon milk
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Coating:
Set up three shallow bowls: one with milk, one with shredded cheddar cheese, and one with crushed crackers mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast in milk, then coat with cheddar cheese. Press into the seasoned cracker crumbs to fully coat.
Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
Prepare the Optional Sauce:
In a small saucepan, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Heat over medium heat until warm and smooth. Serve over the baked chicken.
This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a flavorful, crunchy delight, perfect for a comforting family meal!
Variations and Tips for Crispy Cheddar Chicken
Variations:
Cheese Options:
Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
Spicy Kick:
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cracker mixture for a touch of heat.
Herbaceous Twist:
Incorporate dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano into the cracker mixture for added aroma.
Gluten-Free:
Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Low-Carb Alternative:
Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb option.
Crispier Texture:
Toast the cracker crumbs slightly before coating the chicken for an extra-crispy finish.
Alternative Sauces:
Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce instead of cream sauce for variety.
Vegetable Side:
Add sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
Tips for Success:
Even Coating:
Press the cheese and cracker mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
Avoid Overcooking:
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent drying out.
Room Temperature Ingredients:
Bring the chicken and milk to room temperature before starting for even cooking.
Thinner Chicken Breasts:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.
Crispy Topping:
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking for an extra-crispy finish.
Make Ahead:
Assemble the coated chicken in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
You can adapt this Crispy Cheddar Chicken to fit any dietary requirement or taste choice with these modifications and advice!