There's nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of Crispy Cheddar Chicken fresh out of the oven. This family-friendly dish pairs tender, juicy chicken with a golden, cheesy coating that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with different ways to make chicken more exciting for my picky eaters. Little did I know it would become a household staple, loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you're prepping for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cheddar Chicken
Prepare to be amazed by how simple and delicious this recipe is! Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that offers something for everyone.
First, the crunchy texture and cheesy flavor are irresistible. Thanks to the combination of crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheddar, every bite is a burst of savory goodness.
It’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip this up in under an hour—perfect for those nights when you don’t have time to fuss over dinner.
Another reason to love this recipe? It’s versatile and budget-friendly. Use chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders, depending on what you have on hand. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, keeping costs low without sacrificing flavor.
Finally, this dish pairs well with nearly any side. Serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite steamed veggies for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crispy Cheddar Chicken lies in its simple, yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component works together to create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying.
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Slice them in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar is key. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can prevent it from melting properly.
- Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers are the secret to the perfect crunchy coating. If you don’t have Ritz, panko breadcrumbs work as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
- Eggs: These act as the glue that helps the cheese and cracker crumbs stick to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder & Paprika: These simple seasonings add just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the dish.
For equipment, you’ll need a baking dish, a large zip-top bag for crushing crackers, and a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten the chicken, if necessary.
How To Make This Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Creating this mouthwatering dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Let me walk you through the steps to ensure success every time.
- Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. This step ensures they cook evenly and quickly. - Assemble the Coating
Place your Ritz crackers in a large zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow dish. In separate dishes, prepare the shredded cheddar and beat your eggs. You’ll have three stations: eggs, cheese, and crackers. - Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the eggs, then press it into the shredded cheddar, making sure it’s well-coated. Finally, press it into the cracker crumbs, ensuring an even layer. Place the coated chicken in a greased baking dish. - Bake to Perfection
Drizzle a bit of melted butter over the chicken pieces for extra flavor and crispiness. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The result? Juicy chicken with a crispy, cheesy crust that’s impossible to resist.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your Crispy Cheddar Chicken for maximum freshness.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure the chicken has cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its crispy coating.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: To keep the coating crispy, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites for a new flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cracker crumbs for a little heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Kid-Friendly Nuggets: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces before coating and baking to create bite-sized nuggets that kids will love.
- Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier texture, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Experiment Freely! This recipe is a canvas for your creativity. Try different coatings, seasonings, and side dishes to make it uniquely yours. The possibilities are endless!
With its crunchy, cheesy crust and tender, flavorful chicken, this Crispy Cheddar Chicken recipe is a surefire winner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!
PrintCrispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
This crispy cheddar chicken recipe features tender chicken coated in a crunchy cheddar and breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. A satisfying, flavorful dish that's quick to prepare and perfect for a family meal or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs)
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place milk in a second bowl and shredded cheddar cheese in a third.
- Dip each chicken breast in milk, then coat with cheese, and finally dredge in the crumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating.
- Place coated chicken in the prepared baking dish. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with melted butter for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and coating is golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
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