Cheese Baked Chicken Breasts
Crispy baked chicken breasts coated in crunchy Cheez-Its crumbs, infused with garlic and marjoram, perfect for easy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Between waxed paper, crush Cheez-Its crackers into coarse crumbs with a rolling pin.
- Mix cracker crumbs with salt, garlic salt, and marjoram in a shallow bowl.
- Beat egg and water in another shallow dish.
- Dip chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then coat well in the crumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a moderately buttered shallow pan about an inch apart.
- Drizzle melted butter over the chicken.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown.
- For twelve chicken pulley bones, bake at 350°F for 1 1/4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the cracker crumb mixture. You can substitute Cheez-Its with any cheesy cracker or even crushed tortilla chips for a different taste. To make the coating more crunchy, try adding some panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan while baking to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese baked chicken breasts alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious butter sauce. This dish goes well with a side of California Cheese Soup for a comforting dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fruit salad as a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese baked chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the coating may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Baked Chicken Breasts contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook thoroughly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken breasts and place them in the pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven for even cooking.
What can I serve with cheese baked chicken?
You can serve this dish with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or a creamy pasta would complement the chicken well. It also pairs beautifully with Ann'S Chicken Casserole for a comforting dinner spread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).