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Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Crispy Cheddar Chicken
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Crispy Cheddar Chicken features a golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating combined with melted sharp cheddar cheese for a savory and comforting dish. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, it balances crispy texture with juicy tender chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil for cooking

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary, chopped (for herb infusion)
  • 1 cup crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour (gluten-free option substitute)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese (for extra cheesy)
  • 1 cup crushed pork rinds or crushed nuts (low-carb breadcrumb substitute)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and gently pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking and juicy results.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Station: Whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt in one shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any optional seasonings you prefer.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press firmly into the cheddar breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated for maximum crunch and flavor.
  4. Cook Until Golden: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the coated chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Let It Rest: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the chicken moist.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold, melty crust.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to keep the coating crispy.
  • Pat chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick better.
  • Preheat the pan to lock in moisture and ensure crispiness.
  • For a lighter alternative, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet until crisp and cooked through.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy Chicken, Cheddar Chicken, Cheesy Chicken, Family Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipe, Gluten-Free Chicken

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/crispy-cheddar-chicken/