If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic chicken dishes, our Chicken With Cheez Its recipe is a game changer. This crunchy cheesy coating adds a burst of flavor and an irresistible texture that turns a simple meal into something special. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To prepare our delicious Chicken With Cheez Its, gather fresh ingredients for the chicken, the cheesy coating, and optional seasonings that elevate the flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect crispy and flavorful bite.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheez Its Coating
- 2 cups crushed Cheez Its crackers (about 4.5 ounces)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Seasonings and Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (to serve)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for added heat)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (to brush on chicken for extra crispiness)
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper |
| Cheez Its Coating | 2 cups crushed Cheez Its crackers, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder |
| Optional Additions | Fresh parsley, lemon wedges, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, 2 tbsp melted butter |
By preparing these ingredients meticulously, we set the stage for a crispy, cheesy chicken dish that’s both quick and impressive.
Equipment Needed
To master our Chicken With Cheez Its recipe, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crispy, cheesy crust paired with tender chicken inside.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls
We need at least two: one for the buttermilk marinade and one for the Cheez Its coating mix. Choose medium size for easy tossing and dredging.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of seasonings and liquid ingredients ensure balanced flavor and texture.
- Food Processor or Plastic Bag with Rolling Pin
To crush the Cheez Its finely yet retain some crunch, a food processor works best. Alternatively, seal the crackers in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Whisk or Fork
For blending the buttermilk with seasonings smoothly.
- Baking Sheet or Wire Rack
We recommend a wire rack over a baking sheet to promote even air circulation, resulting in a crispier crust.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil
Lining the baking sheet keeps cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
- Oven or Air Fryer
An oven preheated to 400°F (204°C) is ideal. Alternatively, an air fryer speeds cooking while preserving crunch.
- Tongs
For safe handling and flipping of the chicken.
| Equipment | Purpose | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and coating chicken | At least two |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential for seasoning balance |
| Food Processor | Crushing Cheez Its | Alternately rolling pin & bag |
| Whisk or Fork | Blending buttermilk & seasonings | |
| Baking Sheet/Wire Rack | Cooking chicken to crisp crunch | Wire rack recommended |
| Parchment/Aluminum Foil | Lining baking sheet | For easy cleanup |
| Oven/Air Fryer | Cooking chicken | Oven at 400°F or air fryer |
| Tongs | Handling chicken safely |
Utilizing these tools ensures our Cheez Its coated chicken turns out perfectly every time, balancing convenience with quality. Let’s equip ourselves smartly before diving into the cooking process.
Prep
Let’s get everything ready so our Chicken With Cheez Its turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful. Proper preparation sets the foundation for this cheesy crunchy delight.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim the boneless skinless chicken breasts of any excess fat or tendons for an even cook.
- Slice each breast horizontally if they are thick to create thinner cutlets about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook through evenly.
- Pat dry the chicken pieces thoroughly with paper towels. Removing moisture ensures the buttermilk marinade adheres properly and the Cheez Its crust sticks well.
- Place chicken in a mixing bowl and pour in the seasoned buttermilk blend.
Tip: Use a whisk to blend buttermilk with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper before adding chicken.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
Crushing the Cheez Its
Achieving the perfect crunchy coating relies on properly crushed Cheez Its.
| Method | Instructions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor | Pulse in small batches until coarse crumbs form. | Evenly crushed pieces without dust |
| Rolling Pin | Place Cheez Its in a sealed plastic bag; gently roll and crush. | Larger shards for extra crunch |
| By Hand | Crush individually with fingers for coarse crumbles. | More rustic texture with varied sizes |
- We recommend combining coarse crumbs with finely grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a flavorful crust.
- Mix the crumb blend well in a shallow dish to ensure uniform coating when dredging chicken.
Preparing the chicken and crushing the Cheez Its carefully maximizes flavor adhesion and crispy texture in our Chicken With Cheez Its recipe.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for preparing Chicken With Cheez Its to achieve that irresistible crispy, cheesy texture and vibrant flavor.
Coating the Chicken
- Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each piece gently but thoroughly in the prepared Cheez Its and Parmesan cheese crust mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
- For an extra thick crust, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then coat again with the crumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken pieces onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This setup promotes air circulation, ensuring the crust stays crispy during cooking.
- Allow the coated chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps the crust set and reduces the chance of it falling off.
Cooking Methods
We recommend two foolproof methods to cook our Chicken With Cheez Its: baking and air frying. Each method enhances the crispness differently while keeping the chicken juicy.
| Method | Temperature & Time | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) | Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a wire rack to allow even crisping. |
| Air Frying | 400°F (205°C) for 15-18 mins | Arrange chicken in a single layer, avoid overcrowding. Flip halfway through for uniform browning. |
- For Baking: Use parchment paper or foil beneath the wire rack for easy cleanup. After flipping the chicken, we recommend broiling for 1-2 minutes to intensify the golden crust.
- For Air Frying: Use tongs to gently flip the chicken to keep the crust intact. Avoid spraying oil directly on the coated side; instead, lightly coat the basket or brush oil on the chicken before cooking.
With these steps, we ensure each piece of our Chicken With Cheez Its boasts a crunchy, cheesy exterior paired with juicy, tender meat inside—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Tips for Crispy Chicken
To achieve the crispiest Chicken With Cheez Its, we follow several key steps that enhance crunch and flavor while ensuring juicy chicken inside.
1. Pat Chicken Dry Before Marinating
Dry chicken breasts thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture prevents sogginess and helps the buttermilk marinade stick better, which is essential for a crispy coating.
2. Use Thin Cutlets for Even Cooking
Slicing chicken into uniform thin cutlets (about ½ inch thick) ensures the chicken cooks evenly and reduces the risk of undercooked centers or overly browned crusts.
3. Marinate at Least 30 Minutes
A well-seasoned buttermilk soak tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. Marinating for at least 30 minutes allows the chicken to absorb spices and helps the coating adhere better.
4. Crush Cheez Its Coarsely
We recommend crushing the Cheez Its to a coarse crumb texture. Too fine and the crust will be dense; too large and the coating won’t stick well. Use a food processor set to pulse or a rolling pin for the best texture.
5. Combine Cheez Its with Parmesan and Seasonings
Mix crushed Cheez Its with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika for a flavorful, golden crust. This combo adds extra depth and enhances crispiness.
6. Double Dip for Maximum Crunch
For extra crunch, double coat the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then the Cheez Its mixture a second time before cooking. This creates a thicker barrier for a crunchier bite.
7. Use a Wire Rack for Cooking
Placing chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet promotes air circulation around the chicken, ensuring all sides crisp evenly. Avoid baking directly on a pan surface which can trap steam and create sogginess.
8. Maintain Proper Oven or Air Fryer Temperature
Cooking at a high heat of 400°F allows the coating to crisp without drying out the chicken.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Baking | 400°F | 20-25 minutes | Flip halfway for even browning |
| Air Frying | 400°F | 15-18 minutes | Check for golden crust, do not overcrowd |
9. Let Rest After Cooking
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes on the wire rack after cooking. This helps the crust set and the juices redistribute inside the meat, ensuring each bite is perfectly crispy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Chicken With Cheez Its experience, we recommend pairing it with sides and garnishes that complement its cheesy, crunchy profile while balancing its rich flavors.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Fresh Garden Salad
A crisp mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions tossed in a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting base to balance the crunchy texture of the chicken crust.
- Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs add earthiness and color to the plate.
Flavor Enhancing Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley or Chives
Sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs over the chicken to add brightness and a touch of green.
- Lemon Wedges
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness, enhancing the cheesy notes while adding a zesty kick.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
For those who enjoy a subtle heat, lightly dusting the chicken with crushed red pepper flakes introduces a pleasant warmth.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
| Beverage | Description | Reason for Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio | Cuts through richness, refreshing palate |
| Light Beer | Pilsner or Blonde Ale | Complements crunchy texture, light flavor |
| Sparkling Water | With a slice of lime or lemon | Cleanses palate without overpowering |
Plating Tips
- Serve the Chicken With Cheez Its on a wire rack or perforated plate to keep crust extra crispy.
- Use contrasting colors on the plate to highlight the golden crust against bright greens or vibrant vegetables.
- Garnish the plate with herb sprigs and a couple of lemon wedges for visual appeal and flavor balance.
“Balancing the crispy, cheesy chicken crunch with fresh, vibrant sides and zesty garnishes transforms our recipe into a restaurant-quality meal.”
By thoughtfully selecting side dishes and garnishes, our Chicken With Cheez Its becomes a well-rounded and satisfying dish ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time and make the Chicken With Cheez Its recipe even more convenient, we can prepare key components ahead without sacrificing flavor or texture. Follow these steps to streamline your cooking process:
1. Marinate the Chicken in Advance
- Trim and slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets as instructed.
- Combine the buttermilk with seasonings in a bowl.
- Submerge the chicken cutlets fully in the buttermilk marinade.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
“Marinating overnight intensifies the juiciness and helps the coating adhere seamlessly during cooking.”
2. Prepare the Cheez Its Coating Mix
- Crush the Cheez Its using a food processor or rolling pin until finely ground but still slightly textured.
- Combine the crushed Cheez Its with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and any additional seasonings.
- Transfer the dry mix into a sealed container or a sturdy zip-lock bag.
- Store at room temperature or refrigerate if preparing more than a day in advance.
3. Assemble and Refrigerate Before Cooking
- After marinating, remove each chicken cutlet and let excess buttermilk drip off.
- Dredge the chicken in the prepared Cheez Its mixture coating evenly on all sides.
- Place coated cutlets on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking or air frying.
| Task | Recommended Time Frame | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken marinating | 2 to 24 hours | Covered bowl or airtight container, refrigerated |
| Cheez Its coating mix prep | Up to 3 days | Sealed container, room temperature or refrigerated |
| Coated chicken resting pre-cook | Up to 4 hours | Parchment-lined sheet, loosely covered, refrigerated |
Tips for Best Results
- Always bring marinated chicken to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid stacking coated cutlets during refrigeration to maintain the crispiness of the coating.
- If coating in advance, wait to preheat the cooking appliance until just before baking or air frying the chicken.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we streamline meal prep, ensuring our Chicken With Cheez Its is perfectly crispy and juicy with less stress on busy nights or when entertaining.
Conclusion
This Chicken With Cheez Its recipe brings a fun twist to classic chicken dishes, delivering a crispy, cheesy crunch that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, it offers a perfect balance of flavor and convenience. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can easily create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in our recipe rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Chicken With Cheez Its?
You need boneless skinless chicken breasts, buttermilk, crushed Cheez Its, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and optional additions like fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and crushed red pepper flakes.
How do I prepare the chicken for this recipe?
Trim the chicken breasts, slice them into thin cutlets, and marinate them in a seasoned buttermilk blend for 2 to 24 hours to tenderize and enhance flavor.
How do I crush Cheez Its for the coating?
Use a food processor or place Cheez Its in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until finely crushed but not powdery.
What cooking methods work best for this dish?
You can bake the coated chicken in a preheated 400°F oven or use an air fryer. Both methods yield crispy, juicy chicken.
How do I ensure the chicken coating stays crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before coating, use thin cutlets, avoid stacking coated pieces, rest the coated chicken before cooking, and use a wire rack during baking.
Can I make the Chicken With Cheez Its ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours, prepare and store the Cheez Its coating for up to three days, and refrigerate coated chicken for up to four hours before cooking.
What sides pair well with Chicken With Cheez Its?
Try fresh garden salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheesy chicken.
What beverages complement this dish?
Crisp white wine, light beer, or sparkling water work well to refresh the palate alongside the flavorful chicken.
How should I plate the Chicken With Cheez Its?
Arrange the chicken cutlets neatly on a plate, garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, and serve immediately to keep the coating crispy.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?
Absolutely! It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and impresses guests, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.