Description
Golden, crunchy, and irresistibly cheesy baked chicken with a tender, juicy center and a sharp cheddar breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil spray, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In one bowl whisk the eggs. In a second bowl mix breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the flour in a third bowl.
- Lightly spray the wire rack with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the cheddar breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Arrange coated chicken on the prepared rack and lightly mist the tops with olive oil spray. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes so the juices settle and the crust stays crisp.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting and flavor.
- A wire rack helps air circulate so the bottom stays crispy.
- Bring chicken to room temperature for even cooking.
- For extra crunch, use panko in place of regular breadcrumbs.
- Air fryer option: 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
Keywords: crispy cheddar baked chicken, baked chicken, cheesy chicken, oven baked chicken, breadcrumb crusted chicken, weeknight dinner