Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This baked chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the flavors of crispy Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and cream of chicken soup. The result is a savory and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
To make Crispy Cheddar Chicken, boneless chicken breasts or tenders are coated with a mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and spices, then baked until golden brown and crispy. The addition of cream of chicken soup to the recipe adds a creamy and flavorful element to the dish. This recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious and filling meal that is easy to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen.
Overall, Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a simple and tasty recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a great way to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Recipe Overview
Ingredients
To make Crispy Cheddar Chicken – Baked, the following ingredients are needed:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Cooking spray
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for Crispy Cheddar Chicken – Baked is approximately 1 hour. The preparation time is around 20 minutes, and the baking time is around 40 minutes.
Serving Size
This recipe yields 4 servings. Each serving of Crispy Cheddar Chicken – Baked contains approximately 30-40 grams of fat and 1000-1500 milligrams of sodium. While some fat and sodium are necessary for a healthy diet, it is important to limit your intake of these nutrients to avoid negative health effects.
Preparation Steps
Preparing Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is a straightforward and easy process that can be done by anyone who loves to cook. This section outlines the three main steps involved in making this delicious dish.
Chicken Preparation
The first step in making Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is to prepare the chicken. To do this, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Then, take 2 lb chicken tenders or 4 large breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Next, season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. It is important to make sure that the chicken is well seasoned to enhance its flavor. Once the chicken is seasoned, set it aside and move on to the next step.
Cheese Mixture
The second step in making Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is to prepare the cheese mixture. To do this, mix together 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder in a bowl.
Make sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure that they are evenly distributed. This cheese mixture will be used to coat the chicken and give it a delicious cheesy flavor.
Breading
The third and final step in making Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is to bread the chicken. To do this, take each piece of chicken and coat it in the cheese mixture, making sure that it is well coated on all sides.
After the chicken is coated in the cheese mixture, it is time to bread it. To do this, mix together 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese in a shallow dish. Then, dip each piece of chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure that it is well coated on all sides.
Once all of the chicken is coated in the breadcrumb mixture, place it in the prepared baking dish and bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
Overall, making Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is a simple and enjoyable process that yields a delicious and flavorful dish. By following these three easy steps, anyone can make this dish and impress their friends and family with their cooking skills.
Cooking Instructions
Oven Preheating
To start making Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
Baking Process
Take 2 lb chicken tenders or 4 large breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a shallow dish, mix together 2 tubes of crushed Ritz crackers, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp pepper. In another shallow dish, pour 1/2 cup of whole milk. Dip each chicken piece in milk and then coat it in the cracker mixture. Place the chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish.
Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until it is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Final Broiling
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle 3 cups of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken pieces. Return the baking dish to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and juices. Serve the Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or salad.
Overall, Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked is an easy and delicious recipe that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the perfect side dish for your Crispy Cheddar Chicken:
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal. They are also a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pair well with Crispy Cheddar Chicken. They are creamy, comforting, and filling, making them the perfect accompaniment to this hearty and flavorful chicken dish.
- Fresh Salad: A fresh salad is always a great choice when serving Crispy Cheddar Chicken. It adds some freshness and crunch to the meal, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Try a simple garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, or get creative with a spinach and strawberry salad.
Presentation Tips
When it comes to presenting your Crispy Cheddar Chicken, there are a few tips and tricks that can help make it look as good as it tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprig of fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme to your Crispy Cheddar Chicken can add some color and flavor to the dish. Simply chop the herbs finely and sprinkle them over the chicken before serving.
- Serve on a Platter: If you want to make your Crispy Cheddar Chicken look extra special, consider serving it on a platter instead of a regular plate. This will give the dish some height and make it look more impressive.
- Use Colorful Plates: Choosing colorful plates can help make your Crispy Cheddar Chicken look more appetizing. Consider using plates in shades of blue, green, or red to complement the golden brown color of the chicken.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Leftover Crispy Cheddar Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is important to store the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air from getting in and causing the chicken to dry out.
Reheating Methods
There are several ways to reheat Crispy Cheddar Chicken to maintain its crispy texture and delicious taste. Here are some of the best methods:
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method is great for reheating larger quantities of chicken.
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method is perfect for reheating smaller quantities of chicken.
- Toaster Oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on the toaster oven rack and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method is great for reheating small quantities of chicken.
It is important to avoid using the microwave to reheat Crispy Cheddar Chicken as it can make the chicken soggy and lose its crispy texture.
When reheating, ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste of Crispy Cheddar Chicken even after it has been cooked.
Nutritional Information
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a popular baked dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. While it is a tasty treat, it is also important to consider the nutritional information of the dish to make informed choices about what you are eating.
One serving of Crispy Cheddar Chicken (approximately 200 grams) contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the recipe and ingredients used. It is also high in protein, with about 40-50 grams per serving. However, it is important to note that the dish is also high in fat and sodium, with about 20-30 grams of fat and 800-1000 milligrams of sodium per serving.
To make the dish healthier, you can use low-fat cheese and crackers, and reduce the amount of salt in the recipe. You can also serve the dish with a side of vegetables or a salad to add more nutrients to your meal.
Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information of some of the key ingredients used in the dish:
- Chicken breast: Chicken breast is a good source of protein and low in fat, with about 165 calories and 31 grams of protein per 100 grams.
- Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese is high in fat and calories, with about 400 calories and 33 grams of fat per 100 grams. However, it is also a good source of calcium and protein.
- Ritz crackers: Ritz crackers are high in calories and carbohydrates, with about 500 calories and 60 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams. They are also high in sodium, with about 1000 milligrams per 100 grams.
Overall, Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. By being mindful of the nutritional information and making small changes to the recipe, you can make the dish healthier and still enjoy its delicious taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you achieve a crispy coating when baking chicken with cheese?
The key to achieving a crispy coating when baking chicken with cheese is to use a combination of panko breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese. The panko breadcrumbs will help to create a crunchy texture, while the cheese will add a rich, savory flavor. To ensure that the coating stays crispy, it’s important to bake the chicken at a high temperature (around 400°F) and to avoid overcrowding the baking dish.
What are some simple recipes for making chicken breast with a cheddar crust?
There are many simple recipes for making chicken breast with a cheddar crust, but one of the most popular is Crispy Cheddar Chicken- Baked. To make this dish, you’ll need chicken tenders, panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and a few other simple ingredients. The chicken is coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked until golden brown and crispy.
Can you use Ritz crackers to create a crust for chicken dishes?
Yes, Ritz crackers can be used to create a delicious crust for chicken dishes. To make a Ritz cracker crust, simply crush the crackers into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter and any seasonings you like. Press the mixture onto the chicken and bake as usual. The result will be a crispy, flavorful crust that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces.
Is it possible to prepare a cheddar chicken meal ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, it is possible to prepare a cheddar chicken meal ahead of time and freeze it. To do this, simply coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to cook the chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as usual.
What are some tips for keeping the chicken skin crispy throughout the baking process?
To keep the chicken skin crispy throughout the baking process, it’s important to avoid overcrowding the baking dish. This will allow the hot air to circulate around the chicken, helping to create a crispy texture. It’s also important to bake the chicken at a high temperature (around 400°F) and to avoid covering it with foil, which can trap moisture and make the skin soggy.
How can you effectively crisp up breaded chicken in the oven without drying it out?
To effectively crisp up breaded chicken in the oven without drying it out, it’s important to use a combination of breadcrumbs and flour. The flour will help to create a light, crispy coating, while the breadcrumbs will add a crunchy texture. It’s also important to bake the chicken at a high temperature (around 400°F) and to avoid overcooking it, which can cause it to become dry and tough.
