Dinner

Cheddar Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe

ByNoah Steele October 21, 2025October 21, 2025

Introduction

This Cheddar Cheese Chicken recipe is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinners. With a crispy, cheesy coating and juicy chicken breasts, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

The image shows a dish with three pieces of cooked white fish fillets layered with melted cheese on top. The first layer is the white fish fillets, soft and tender, covered completely by the second layer of creamy, golden-yellow melted cheese that is slightly browned in spots with small bubbly textures. Scattered on the cheese are small green herb bits adding color contrast. The fish is served on a round white plate, placed on a white marbled surface, with a background hinting at fresh green herbs and a block of orange cheese blurred out. Steam rises gently from the dish, indicating it is hot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp melted butter
Fresh parsley or chives (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat each chicken breast with melted butter, then press them into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture to ensure they are fully coated.

Step 4: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey cheese crust.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness, or microwave on medium power if short on time.

How to Serve

A close-up of four pieces of fish topped with a thick, melted layer of golden yellow cheese that is slightly browned in spots, with small green herb sprinkles scattered on top; the fish underneath appears white and flaky, contrasting with the creamy cheese layer. The dish is served on a white plate with a textured rim, set against a white marbled surface, with steam rising softly from the hot cheese. In the background, an out-of-focus block of orange cheese and a grater add to the context of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Baking until golden brown and firm will also help ensure doneness.

Cheddar Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 105 reviews

Author: Noah

Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Cheddar Cheese Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated with a flavorful mixture of sharp cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and spices, then baked to a golden perfection. It’s an irresistible dish perfect for every meal, offering a crispy, cheesy crust with juicy chicken inside. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese Coating

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp melted butter

Garnish (Optional)

Fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Mix Coating Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, blending well to create a flavorful crust mixture.
Coat Chicken: Brush each chicken breast evenly with melted butter. Then, press each piece into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, making sure they are fully coated to form a delicious crust.

Bake: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating turns golden brown and crispy.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the chicken breasts with freshly chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

For juicier chicken, you can marinate the breasts in buttermilk for 30 minutes before coating.

Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for a lighter, crunchier texture; substitute with regular breadcrumbs if necessary.
You can adjust spices to your taste, adding more paprika for extra smokiness or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheddar Cheese Chicken, Baked Chicken Breast, Cheesy Chicken Recipes, Breaded Chicken, Easy Dinner Recipes

Noah Steele

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