Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 cups shredded cheddar cheese1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 1 cup, crushed)1/2 cup milk1/4 teaspoon garlic powder1/4 teaspoon onion powder1/4 teaspoon paprikaSalt and pepper to taste2 tablespoons butter, meltedOptional Cream Sauce: 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup1/2 cup sour cream1 tablespoon milkDirections: Preheat the Oven:Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.Prepare the Coating:Set up three shallow bowls: one with milk, one with shredded cheddar cheese, and one with crushed crackers mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.Coat the Chicken:Dip each chicken breast in milk, then coat with cheddar cheese. Press into the seasoned cracker crumbs to fully coat.Bake the Chicken:Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden, crispy, and cooked through.Prepare the Optional Sauce:In a small saucepan, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Heat over medium heat until warm and smooth. Serve over the baked chicken.This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a flavorful, crunchy delight, perfect for a comforting family meal! Variations and Tips for Crispy Cheddar ChickenVariations:Cheese Options:Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.Spicy Kick:Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cracker mixture for a touch of heat.Herbaceous Twist:Incorporate dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano into the cracker mixture for added aroma.Gluten-Free:Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.Low-Carb Alternative:Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb option.Crispier Texture:Toast the cracker crumbs slightly before coating the chicken for an extra-crispy finish.Alternative Sauces:Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce instead of cream sauce for variety.Vegetable Side:Add sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.Tips for Success:Even Coating:Press the cheese and cracker mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.Avoid Overcooking:Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent drying out.Room Temperature Ingredients:Bring the chicken and milk to room temperature before starting for even cooking.Thinner Chicken Breasts:Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.Crispy Topping:Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking for an extra-crispy finish.Make Ahead:Assemble the coated chicken in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.Leftovers:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.With these variations and tips, you can customize this Crispy Cheddar Chicken to suit any taste preference or dietary need!
Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
