Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
This Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe delivers a crunchy, cheesy crust with juicy chicken—easy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Three Shallow Dishes
- Meat Mallet
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- turkey bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
- cooking oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Slice each breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets or gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin for even cooking and tender chicken.
Set Up Your Breading Station
- Set up three shallow dishes: in the first, add all-purpose flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. In the third, combine crushed cornflakes and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in crumbled turkey bacon if using.
Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press firmly into the cornflake and cheddar mixture ensuring an even coating. Repeat the egg and cornflake steps for a double crust if desired.
Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 1/4 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C). Fry chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Drain and Serve
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and cheese coating to set. Serve hot with favorite sides or dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, double coat with egg wash and cornflake mixture.
- Use a meat mallet to pound chicken evenly for faster, more uniform cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.