Delmarva Chicken
Delmarva Chicken features crispy, cheesy-coated chicken baked to tender perfection, with rich flavors of Parmesan, onion, and parsley, ideal for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Rinse and dry the chicken.
- Crush the crackers until finely chopped.
- Combine grated onion, chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl, blending well.
- Melt the butter.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the cracker mixture, coating thoroughly.
- Place the coated chicken on an aluminum foil-covered baking tray.
- Sprinkle the onion, parsley, and cheese mixture onto the chicken pieces.
- Pour the melted butter over all the pieces.
- Cover the chicken and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the cover and continue baking uncovered for another 25 minutes until tender and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cracker mixture for extra flavor. If you're out of Parmesan, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch. You can also substitute crushed cornflakes for crackers for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
Delmarva Chicken is best served with sides like Au Gratin Potatoes Deluxe or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a zesty coleslaw to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Delmarva Chicken 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. This will help maintain its crispy coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delmarva Chicken contains roughly 681 calories, with 27g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (391% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), and iron (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1895mg per serving (82% 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked. Boneless pieces will typically require less time in the oven, about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size.
What can I do if I don't have fresh parsley?
If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder. You could also try fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbal note, depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in the cracker mixture a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy meal on busy days.
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).