Go Back

Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a crunchy, flavorful coating of sharp cheddar cheese and perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs. Whether you choose to bake it for a healthier option or pan-fry it for an extra crispy texture, this recipe is a winner for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko for extra crunch
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for brushing or drizzling
  • Fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven (if baking)
  2. If you're opting for the baked version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the coating becomes beautifully golden brown.
  3. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
  4. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and tenderizes it. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This is where the flavor infusion begins, so don't be shy with the seasonings!
  5. Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station
  6. Organize three shallow dishes for the dredging process. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat the two large eggs until well combined. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese thoroughly. Ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs for maximum cheesy goodness.
  7. Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
  8. Take each seasoned chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps – this double coating creates a delightful texture.
  9. Step 5: Prepare for Cooking
  10. If baking, lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Drizzle or brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This adds flavor and helps the coating become beautifully golden and crispy.
  11. If pan-frying, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect sear and prevent sticking.