If you are craving a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with juicy, tender chicken, then you’ve got to try this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe. It’s a delightful, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together crunchy Rice Krispies and panko breadcrumbs with sharp cheddar cheese for a perfectly golden crust. This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests, making it an all-around winner in the comfort food department.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe comes together using easy-to-find ingredients that work in harmony to create a crispy and flavorful coating with tender, moist chicken inside. Each component is chosen to elevate the texture, flavor, and color of the dish, so let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Provides a base layer that helps the coatings stick perfectly to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish, making every bite more delicious.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with savory, aromatic notes.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue that holds the crunchy coating in place.
- 2 tablespoons whole milk: Lightens the egg mixture for better coating adhesion.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty richness to the crispy crust.
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal: Adds an unexpected, light crunch that perfectly contrasts the tender chicken.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Offers extra crispness and an airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Lends a fragrant herbaceous kick to the coating.
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips): Tender, lean chicken strips that cook quickly and stay juicy.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled over the chicken for golden, flavorful crispiness.
How to Make Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it’s warming up, coat a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure an easy cleanup. This step sets the stage for a fuss-free cooking experience.
Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Stations
Get three shallow bowls ready: In the first, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder; this will be your dry flour mixture to add flavor and help the coating stick. In the second bowl, whisk the egg with the milk to make an egg wash that will bind the coatings. Finally, mix shredded cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies cereal, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning in your third bowl for the ultimate crispy and flavorful crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every surface is lightly covered. Next, dip the chicken into the egg wash, getting a smooth but not dripping coat. Then firmly press the chicken into the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, coating it generously so that each bite promises maximum crunch and cheesy flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken tenders in the baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top; this step is key for achieving that golden crust and adding richness. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, your Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed hot, delivering a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful chicken within. Serve immediately for the best textural contrast and taste satisfaction.
How to Serve Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can brighten up this hearty dish beautifully. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley, chives, or even a little shredded cheddar on top to add a pop of color and an extra dose of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can also bring a lovely zing that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe pairs fantastically with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which add an earthy sweetness and a bit of bite. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or creamy rice to complete a comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken tenders in a sandwich or wrap with fresh lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of ranch or honey mustard sauce. You can also slice the cooked chicken and layer it over creamy polenta or pasta for a cozy dinner that feels a little bit special but stays easy and approachable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, the chicken will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, arrange the chicken tenders on a tray so they’re not touching and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To maintain the crispiness when reheating, use a 350°F oven or a toaster oven and warm the chicken for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy, losing that signature crunch that makes this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips similar in size to tenders to ensure even cooking and coating coverage.
Is it okay to skip the Rice Krispies cereal?
If you don’t have Rice Krispies, you can substitute with additional panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to keep the crisp texture, though Rice Krispies add a unique light crunch that’s hard to beat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour, Rice Krispies, and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, and double-check that seasonings are gluten-free as well.
How long will the chicken stay crispy after baking?
The chicken is crispest right after baking. Once cooled, the crust may soften slightly, which is why reheating in the oven is best to refresh the crunch.
Can I prepare the coating steps ahead of time?
You can prep the dry mixtures up to a day in advance and keep them in airtight containers. However, it’s best to coat the chicken just before baking to maintain maximum crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe is like welcoming a new favorite into your meal rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with irresistible crunchy texture and cheesy flavor that everyone will love. Give it a go, whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself—it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table!
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Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe features tender chicken tenders coated in a flavorful mixture of cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies, and panko breadcrumbs, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. A simple and delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, served best with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly coat a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Bowls: Set up three shallow bowls: one with the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder mixed together; the second with the beaten egg and milk combined; and the third with shredded cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies cereal, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Take each chicken tender and first dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the egg and milk mixture, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring even coating all over.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place the coated chicken tenders evenly in the prepared baking dish, then drizzle melted butter evenly over the top to aid in browning and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, ideally paired with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken tenders are evenly coated at each step for maximum crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature to prevent under- or overcooking.
- For a slightly crispier coating, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rice Krispies add a lovely crunch but can be substituted with crushed cornflakes if preferred.
- Butter is key for achieving a flavorful golden crust, so don’t skip drizzling it on before baking.
