Cheddar Baked Chicken

Ingredients:

½ C. Breadcrumbs

6 Boneless skinless chicken breasts all roughly the same size

1 Tbsp. Milk

1 C. Cheddar cheese shredded

¼ C. Butter divided

2 Large eggs

1 tsp. Garlic powder

1 C. Flour

1 tsp. Salt

1 C. Corn flakes crushed into crumbs

1 tsp. Black pepper

Instructions:

Heat the oven to 350 degrees.

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter, and use it to grease a 9×13 casserole dish.

In a bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs well.

In a separate shallow bowl or plate, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, flour, corn flakes and salt and pepper until well combined.

Dip the chicken into the egg mixture first, and then coat in the crumb mixture.

Place into the prepared casserole dish and top with pieces of the remaining butter.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks in this recipe.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed since dark meat usually takes a little longer to cook than boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

What can I use as a breadcrumb substitute for a gluten-free version?

If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs and cornflakes.

Is it necessary to melt the butter to grease the casserole dish, or can I use a non-stick cooking spray?

You can use a non-stick cooking spray to grease the casserole dish instead of melted butter if you prefer a lower-fat option.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and breadcrumb coating in advance, store the coated chicken in the refrigerator, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

This can save you time when you want to have a quick meal.

What side dishes go well with Cheddar Baked Chicken?

Cheddar Baked Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or rice.

You can choose sides based on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste.

Mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can be great alternatives or even combined for a more diverse flavor.

What should I do if the chicken breasts are thicker or thinner than the suggested size?

Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.

Thicker breasts may require a few extra minutes in the oven, while thinner ones will cook faster.

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I use a baking sheet instead of a casserole dish?

Yes, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil to bake the chicken.

Just ensure there’s enough space between the chicken breasts so they cook evenly.

Can I make this recipe without butter or use a substitute?

You can substitute the butter with margarine or a butter alternative if desired.

Some people also use olive oil or cooking spray to reduce the fat content.

Can I freeze the Cheddar Baked Chicken for later?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for later consumption.

After baking, allow it to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

It should stay good in the freezer for a few months.

Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.