Crunchy Baked Chicken
Crunchy Baked Chicken offers a crispy and flavorful exterior with tender, juicy meat inside. The combination of seasoned cornflake crumbs and buttery coating creates a satisfying crunch perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and oven-friendly, it appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a 2-quart glass baking dish. Microwave at 70% power for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, until melted.
- Combine seasoned salt, pepper, and cornflake crumbs in a shallow dish.
- Roll chicken pieces in the melted butter, then in the seasoned crumbs to coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces, skin side up, with the thick edges toward the outside of the dish.
- Microwave, uncovered, for 6 to 7 minutes per pound, turning the dish halfway through cooking.
- Let stand for 3 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, try adding a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the cornflake crumbs. If you don't have cornflake crumbs, crushed pretzels or panko breadcrumbs can be great alternatives. Be sure to check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it's fully cooked, reaching at least 165°F. For a flavorful twist, consider seasoning the butter with garlic powder or paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crunchy baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or a creamy coleslaw also make excellent pairings. For a complete dinner, consider serving with cornbread or rice pilaf, which complements the flavors beautifully. This dish is versatile and can be the star of a casual family dinner or a weekend gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For crispiness, consider reheating in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Baked Chicken contains roughly 229 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1749mg per serving (76% 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 pieces for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces, but keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and helps the coating adhere better. If you prefer skinless, make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with butter and crumbs to maintain moisture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the seasoned salt before coating the chicken. You can also serve the dish with a spicy dipping sauce, such as sriracha or a homemade hot sauce, for those who enjoy a kick in their meals.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the crumb mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld, and it can save time during dinner prep. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before microwaving.
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).