If you are craving a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, then you will absolutely love this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe. Imagine juicy chicken tenders coated in a delightful mix of cheddar cheese, crunchy Rice Krispies, and panko breadcrumbs, all baked to golden perfection. It is comfort food elevated with a wonderful texture and rich flavor that feels both homey and special. This dish is an easy weeknight winner or a crowd-pleaser for any gathering, thanks to its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation that deliver maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe lies in using everyday ingredients that come together in harmony, giving you a crispy crust, bursting cheese flavor, and perfectly cooked chicken inside. Each component plays its part, from the vibrant cheddar adding a savory punch to the crispy panko and Rice Krispies creating that irresistible crunch and texture you’ll want to dive into.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base coating that helps the egg and crumbs stick to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite tastes just right.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a little kick to balance the mild cheddar cheese.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle garlicky aroma that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the binder, helping the cheesy and crunchy coating cling beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons whole milk: Lightens the egg mixture for a smoother breading process.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that packs a sharp, melty, and savory punch.
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal: Gives an unexpected but delightful crispy crunch to the coating.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunchiness and a beautiful golden color to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant blend of herbs that elevate the flavor profile.
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips): Tender, juicy chicken strips that cook quickly and evenly.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top for extra richness and to achieve that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
First, heat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly coat a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures your chicken will bake nicely without sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Organizing your breading setup makes a huge difference. Use three shallow bowls or dishes: one with the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with the beaten egg mixed with milk; and one combining the shredded cheddar, Rice Krispies, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. This assembly line keeps the process smooth and your hands less messy.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Start by coating each chicken tender in the seasoned flour mixture, which helps the egg adhere better. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg and milk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the cheesy breadcrumb mixture to ensure every tender is wonderfully coated with that crispy, cheesy layer.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over them to encourage that gorgeous golden hue and added richness. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until they are perfectly cooked through at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and nice and crisp on the outside.
How to Serve Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten your plate and enhance flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the hot chicken just before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich cheddar coating that can really elevate your bite.
Side Dishes
This Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to balance the richness. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette also complements the texture, or try mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your cheddar baked chicken tenders on a platter alongside a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. You can also slice them to top a warm grain bowl or stuff them inside soft sandwich buns with lettuce and tomato for a hearty meal option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cheddar baked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and safe to eat for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes for a quick lunch or dinner ready to heat up anytime.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken for longer, freeze the cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This stops them from sticking together and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For reheating, pop your cheddar baked chicken in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to retain the crunch. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess; if you must microwave, do so briefly and then crisp it up in a hot skillet or toaster oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a sharp, classic flavor, you can try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some added spice. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well to keep the coating cohesive.
Is it necessary to use Rice Krispies in the coating?
The Rice Krispies add a unique crunchy texture that panko alone doesn’t provide. However, if you don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with extra panko or crushed crackers for a different but still tasty crunch.
Can this recipe be made with chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders or bake whole breasts. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest piece to ensure the meat is white and juices run clear.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and swap the panko breadcrumbs and Rice Krispies with gluten-free options. Be sure to check labels to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe is one of those golden finds that feels decadent but is surprisingly simple to make. It boasts layers of flavor and texture that keep every bite exciting, whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite on your dinner rotation!
Print
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, crispy cheddar and breadcrumb crust. Baked to golden perfection, this easy-to-make dish offers a deliciously crunchy exterior with cheesy goodness inside, making it a perfect family-friendly meal that pairs well 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 and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder mixed together; the second with the beaten egg and whole milk combined; and the third with shredded cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies cereal, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Bread Chicken: Working one piece at a time, dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour mixture to coat evenly. Next, dip it into the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating packed with cheesy and crunchy texture.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place all the coated chicken tenders evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of each piece to help achieve a golden and crispy finish during baking.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the cheddar baked chicken hot. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a complete and balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking—watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rice Krispies add a unique crunch, but you can substitute with crushed cornflakes if desired.
- To make it lower fat, substitute butter with olive oil or a cooking spray.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
