Description
This Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe features crispy, golden-baked chicken tenders coated in a flavorful mixture of cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies, and panko breadcrumbs. Perfectly seasoned and baked to juicy perfection, these chicken tenders make a delicious and easy family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Seasoned Flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 12 strips)
Finishing
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly coat a 10×15 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the second, beat the egg together with the milk. In the third bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, Rice Krispies cereal, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and first dredge it into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so it is thoroughly coated with the cheesy, crispy coating.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top to help them crisp up during baking and add rich flavor.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve: Serve the cheddar baked chicken hot, accompanied by roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute Rice Krispies with crushed cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs if preferred.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Adjust Italian seasoning to taste or try different herbs like rosemary or thyme for varied flavors.
- Ensure chicken tenders are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
