Cheesy Oven-Fried Chicken
Cheesy oven-fried chicken features crispy coated skin with rich Parmesan and herbs, offering a flavorful, family-friendly dish perfect for casual dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coarsely crush the dried bread slices into crumbs.
- Combine the crushed bread, Parmesan cheese, salt, onion powder, crushed thyme, garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Dip chicken pieces in melted margarine or butter, then roll in the cheese mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated chicken pieces, skin side up and not touching, in a greased large shallow baking pan.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 40 to 60 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Do not turn the chicken during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, try adding crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, use whole wheat bread and a blend of low-fat cheeses. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. Ensure the chicken is fully coated for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesy oven-fried chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside Creamed Chicken And Biscuits. Don't forget to drizzle some of the melted butter over the chicken for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Oven-Fried Chicken contains roughly 57 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1388mg per serving (60% 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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but keep in mind that the skin helps to retain moisture and adds flavor. If using skinless pieces, you might want to adjust the baking time slightly to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. Just note that flavor profiles may vary slightly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in even tastier chicken when baked.
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).