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Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Crispy Cheddar Chicken features tender chicken breasts coated in a golden, crunchy cheddar and breadcrumb crust, delivering a rich, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly dish combines a crispy exterior without deep frying, making it a versatile and comforting favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sharp shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Cooking oil (vegetable or canola), as needed for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well. If the breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets for quicker and even cooking.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, place the flour mixed with salt and pepper, the beaten eggs, and a mixture of the breadcrumbs combined with shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet first into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the cheddar breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks firmly for maximum crispiness.
  4. Cook Until Golden and Crispy: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
  5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping the coating crisp. Serve warm with your choice of sides and garnishes.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thoroughly to help the coating stick better and achieve a crisp finish.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger, more distinct flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming and ensure crispiness; fry in batches if necessary.
  • Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to prevent it from falling off during cooking.
  • Rest the chicken on a wire rack before serving to keep the crust crunchy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy Cheddar Chicken, Cheddar Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner, Crispy Chicken, Cheesy Chicken