Cheesy Quick Chicken
A quick and cheesy baked chicken dish featuring a flavorful Parmesan coating, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with its crispy, tender texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a plastic bag, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley flakes, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Dip the chicken pieces in melted butter or margarine to coat.
- Drop the coated chicken into the dry mixture in the bag.
- Shake the bag to evenly coat each piece of chicken.
- Place the coated chicken in a foil-lined pan.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 1 hour or until the chicken is golden and fork-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier coating, consider adding a bit of cornmeal to the bread crumb mix. You can substitute the Parmesan with any hard cheese you have on hand, like Pecorino or Grana Padano. If you prefer a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using seasoned bread crumbs. For a vegetarian twist, this method works well with cauliflower or eggplant as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Quick Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish, such as a Vegetarian Noodle Dish. For a complete dinner experience, consider adding a tangy dipping sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but the oven method will maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Quick Chicken contains roughly 179 calories, with 12g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1965mg per serving (85% 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 breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they're fully cooked. This recipe works well with any cut of chicken you prefer.
What can I serve with Cheesy Quick Chicken?
Pair this dish with a variety of sides, such as a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed broccoli. It also goes well with rice, especially if you check out a recipe like One Skillet Spicy Chicken 'N Rice for more ideas.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and coat it with the breadcrumb mixture a few hours ahead of baking. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, making for an even tastier dish 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).