If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy chicken dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe is going to be your new favorite weeknight winner. It blends the rich, melty goodness of sharp cheddar with a crunchy, golden crust that’s baked to perfection—all without the hassle of frying. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for sharing with family or friends who appreciate a little extra cheesy love in their lives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in the final flavor and texture. From the tender chicken tenders to the crunchy coating and the rich cheddar cheese, every component is essential.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: This helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds a light crispness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a warm, savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue to hold the breading mixture on the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons whole milk: Lightens the egg mixture for an even coating.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show, delivering sharp, melty indulgence.
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal: Adds an unexpected, delicate crunch that’s super satisfying.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Ensures a golden, crispy crust that bakes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs that burst with Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips): Tender and perfect for quick cooking and even coating.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: A final drizzle to promote browning and rich flavor.
How to Make Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick spray so your chicken won’t stick and cleanup stays easy—this small step makes a big difference!
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Arrange three shallow bowls to keep things tidy: the first with your flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder blend; the second with the beaten egg and whole milk mix; and the third combining shredded cheddar, Rice Krispies, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. This setup turns your kitchen into an assembly line for easy, mess-free breading.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture so it’s lightly coated. Then dip it in the egg and milk mixture to make sure the breading sticks. Press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture for a thick, crunchy crust that holds onto that gooey cheddar goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the breaded chicken tenders evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter all over the top—this encourages a rich, golden crust. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until the coating is crispy and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it’s beautifully browned and smells irresistible.
How to Serve Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. These vibrant greens add a pop of color and a subtle fresh note that effortlessly complements the richness of the cheddar and buttery crust.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, nutrient-packed roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to balance the indulgence. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also cuts through the richness, making every bite feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken tenders atop fluffy mashed potatoes or in soft sandwich buns with your favorite sauce for a homestyle chicken sandwich. You can also slice the chicken and use it as a topping for a vibrant grain bowl loaded with fresh veggies and a creamy dressing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Cheddar Baked Chicken completely before placing it in an airtight container. Stored this way, it’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making your next meal just as delicious with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the baked chicken tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll maintain great texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat refrigerated or thawed chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes. This method preserves the crispy coating unlike microwaving, which can cause it to become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a wonderful sharpness, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder melt or pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can! Slice chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders to ensure even cooking and breading coverage. Just watch the baking time, as thicker pieces may need a few extra minutes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
You bet! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and swap the panko breadcrumbs and Rice Krispies for gluten-free alternatives. The crunchy texture will still shine through.
What makes Rice Krispies a good choice for breading?
Rice Krispies might sound unusual but they add a light, airy crunch that’s different from traditional breadcrumbs. When combined with panko, they create an irresistibly crisp coating that bakes beautifully.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can bread the chicken and store the unbaked pieces covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Then just bake fresh before serving for best crispiness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a dish that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, and this Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these crispy, cheesy tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Cheddar Baked Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe features tender chicken tenders coated in a savory, crispy mixture of cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies, and panko breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection and drizzled with melted butter, it’s a delicious and easy meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Breading Ingredients
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Breading Station
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips)
Other
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick during baking.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls; in the first, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second, whisk together the egg and milk. In the third, mix shredded cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies cereal, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Bread Chicken: Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour mixture to coat evenly. Then dip it into the egg and milk mixture to moisten, and finally press it firmly into the cheddar-cheese breadcrumb mixture to create a crispy coating.
- Bake: Place the breaded chicken tenders in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the coated chicken to promote browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve hot, paired perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can substitute whole milk with any milk alternative if desired.
- For extra crispiness, you may broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rice Krispies add a unique crunch, but can be replaced with crushed cornflakes if preferred.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
