Irresistible Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe

Get ready to savor a deliciously cheesy and crispy dish with this Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe! This easy-to-make meal features tender chicken breasts coated in a savory blend of melted cheddar cheese and crunchy Ritz crackers, seasoned to perfection. Ideal for a family dinner or a comforting weeknight treat, this recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each, for even cooking)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor, but mild works too)
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or substitute with panko breadcrumbs for a different texture)
• 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or 2% for a richer dip)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle aromatic kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (adjust based on your seasoning preference)
• Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons melted butter (for that golden, crispy finish)

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish (9×13-inch works well)
• Shallow bowls or plates (for dipping and coating)
• Cooking brush (if using melted butter)
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature to bake the chicken evenly and achieve that golden crust. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture
   In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs), garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well with a fork or your fingers to evenly distribute the seasonings and create a cohesive coating. The cheese will melt into the crackers during baking, adding a delightful gooey texture.
3. Dip the Chicken
   Pour the milk into another shallow bowl. Take each chicken breast and dip it fully into the milk, ensuring it’s well-coated. This step helps the coating adhere to the chicken. After dipping, press each milk-coated breast into the cheese and cracker mixture, turning and patting gently to cover all sides thoroughly. Repeat this process for all four chicken breasts.
4. Arrange and Add Finishing Touch
   Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly to allow for even cooking. For an extra layer of crispiness and flavor, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or use a brush to drizzle melted butter over each piece. This step enhances the golden color and adds a rich taste.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating turns a beautiful golden brown. If the tops need more color, you can broil for an additional 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even a creamy coleslaw for a delightful contrast. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheddar if desired for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for the Best Cheddar Baked Chicken

• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½-inch) with a meat mallet for uniform cooking.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend for a unique twist.
• Crispier Coating: For an extra crunchy texture, double-dip the chicken in milk and the coating mixture.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the coated chicken ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheddar Baked Chicken is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy, seasoned crunch. The Ritz crackers add a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the melted cheddar, while the garlic powder and paprika bring a warm, savory depth. It’s a hassle-free recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results right at home, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
  Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

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