Low-Fat Crunchy Baked Chicken
Crispy baked chicken breasts coated with crunchy cornflakes and seasoned with chili powder, offering a flavorful, low-fat meal perfect for healthy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine Western dressing, chopped green pepper, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, and onion powder. Reserve 1/3 cup of this sauce.
- Dip chicken breasts into the remaining sauce, then coat with cornflake crumbs mixed with remaining chili powder.
- Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier coating, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflake crumbs. You can also add your favorite herbs, such as dried thyme or oregano, to enhance the flavor. If you're looking for a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a dash of cayenne. For a tangy twist, try substituting the Western French dressing with a light vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crunchy baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Michael'S Favorite Potato Soup for a comforting dinner option. For a complete feast, consider adding a starch like quinoa or brown rice to round out the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain the crunchy coating while warming the chicken evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Crunchy Baked Chicken contains roughly 347 calories, with 27g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. At about 347 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe, you can use skin-on chicken for added flavor. Just be mindful that it may require a longer cooking time to ensure the skin crisps up and the chicken cooks through.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute cornflake crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. Ensure the Western French dressing is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can still enjoy a crunchy, flavorful dish.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken breasts in the sauce and cornflake crumbs a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
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).