👩🍳 Directions:
🔥 1. Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
🥣 2. Prepare the Coating:
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Set up three shallow bowls:
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One with milk.
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One with shredded cheddar cheese.
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One with crushed crackers mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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🍗 3. Coat the Chicken:
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Dip each chicken breast in the milk, then coat with cheddar cheese.
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Press the chicken into the seasoned cracker crumbs to fully coat.
🥘 4. Bake the Chicken:
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Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.
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Drizzle with melted butter.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
🍶 5. Prepare the Optional Sauce:
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In a small saucepan, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
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Heat over medium heat until warm and smooth.
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Serve over the baked chicken.
🌟 Variations and Tips for Crispy Cheddar Chicken:
🧀 Cheese Options:
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Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
🌶️ Spicy Kick:
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Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cracker mixture for some heat.
🌿 Herbaceous Twist:
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Incorporate dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano into the cracker mixture for added aroma.
🌱 Gluten-Free Version:
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Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
🥓 Low-Carb Alternative:
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Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
✨ Crispier Texture:
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Toast the cracker crumbs slightly before coating the chicken.
🍛 Alternative Sauces:
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Try serving with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for variety.
🥦 Vegetable Side:
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Add sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
💡 Tips for Success:
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✅ Even Coating: Press the cheese and cracker mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
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✅ Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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✅ Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the chicken and milk to room temperature before starting for even cooking.
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✅ Thinner Chicken Breasts: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.
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✅ Crispy Topping: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking for an extra-crispy finish.
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✅ Make Ahead: Assemble the coated chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
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✅ Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
🍽️ Serve and Enjoy:
This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a hit with both kids and adults alike! Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal. 🌿🍽️
Enjoy the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness with every bite! 😋
