– **Title**: Garlic Cheddar Chicken Breast
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a garlic mayo mixture.
3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then coat them with the garlic mayo mixture, making sure to cover each breast evenly.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Enjoy your Garlic Cheddar Chicken Breast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for something different, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier bite, or even use turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. If you’re not a cheddar fan, feel free to use mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead. They melt beautifully and add great creaminess.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs add a nice crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a different texture. I find Panko breadcrumbs give an extra crispy layer!
Garlic: The fresh minced garlic really amps up the flavor. If you want a milder taste, use roasted garlic instead, or just increase the garlic powder if that’s all you have on hand.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are fantastic for roasting due to their size. You can swap these for sweet potatoes or even cubed butternut squash for a sweet touch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping for My Chicken?
The key to that lovely crunch lies in the cheese and breadcrumb mix. Make sure to press the mixture down firmly onto the chicken. This helps it adhere better and get crispy in the oven.
- Mix the cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and parsley well with the melted butter. The butter is vital for browning.
- When you spread it onto the chicken, don’t be shy—cover it well.
- If you want an extra crispy finish, place the dish under the broiler for a minute or two at the end but watch it closely!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Potatoes Alongside the Chicken?
Cooking potatoes alongside the chicken is super efficient! Just halve the baby potatoes for quicker cooking. Tossed in olive oil, garlic powder, and seasonings, they’ll soak up flavors from the chicken.
- Ensure your potatoes are in a single layer in their dish for even roasting.
- Check their tenderness with a fork; they should be soft and slightly caramelized.
This method saves time and creates a delicious side that pairs wonderfully with the chicken!
How to Make Garlic Cheddar Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Garlic Cheddar Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For The Sides:
- 1 pound of baby potatoes
- 1 bunch of broccolini (or your preferred green vegetable)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes of cooking time. Including the time needed for prepping and cooking your side vegetables, you should expect the total time to be about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that everything bakes evenly and nicely brown.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for flavor.
3. Combine Topping Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, plain breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Pour in the melted butter and give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spread the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Press it down gently to help it stick for a crispy topping.
5. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your baby potatoes and cut them in half. Place them in another baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss them around to coat evenly.
6. Bake Chicken and Potatoes:
Time to bake! Slide both the chicken and potatoes into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The potatoes should be tender and golden brown.
7. Prepare the Greens:
While the chicken and potatoes are baking, take the opportunity to prepare the broccolini. You can steam or sauté it in a little olive oil with some salt and pepper for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nice and tender.
8. Serve:
Once the chicken and potatoes are cooked, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Then slice it and plate it up with your roasted baby potatoes and the lovely green broccolini. If you like, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Cheddar Chicken Breast meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a different twist. Just keep in mind that a stronger-flavored cheese may alter the overall taste!
What if I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can crush up some crackers, cereal (like cornflakes), or even use panko for a crunchier texture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, almond flour or ground oats also work well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you find the chicken is a bit dry, add a splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil while reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces as the potatoes for even cooking. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings and bake alongside the chicken for a complete meal!
