Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy texture and savory flavors. The chicken is coated in a golden, crunchy layer that’s packed with the irresistible taste of cheddar cheese. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require any complicated ingredients or techniques, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and will quickly become a hit with the whole family. The crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch while the juicy chicken remains tender on the inside.

Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup crushed cornflakes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
In a shallow dish, combine the crushed cornflakes, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a third shallow dish, beat the eggs.
Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the cornflake and cheddar mixture. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the chicken breasts.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Cheddar Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornflake mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Herbed Cheddar Chicken: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the cornflake and cheddar mixture to add more savory flavors.
Parmesan Twist: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the cornflake mixture for a richer, nuttier flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornflakes and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Crispy Cheddar Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and crispy again. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They may take a little longer to cook, so make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and coat it in the cornflake mixture ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the breading is golden brown and crispy.

5. Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can pan-fry the chicken. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Is there a way to make this recipe lower in fat?

To reduce the fat content, you can use a lower-fat cheese, substitute the butter with olive oil, or even try baking with a cooking spray for a lighter version.

7. Can I freeze the leftover chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover crispy chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

8. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

You can serve this crispy chicken with vegetables on the side or even add some finely chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cornflake mixture for added flavor.

9. How can I make the breading even crunchier?

For an extra crispy texture, you can double-dip the chicken in the flour, egg, and cornflake mixture. Additionally, you can spray the breaded chicken with a little cooking spray before baking for a crispier crust.

10. Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?

To make a low-carb version, you can use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of the cornflakes to create a keto-friendly breading.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy, cheesy coating and juicy chicken makes for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a fun new recipe to try, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor every crunchy, cheesy bite!