Cheez It Chicken is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy flavorful dishes with a cheesy twist. This recipe takes tender chicken breasts and coats them in crushed Cheez Its for an irresistible crunch that’s bursting with cheesy goodness. It’s a fun and easy way to elevate a classic chicken dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
We love how this dish combines familiar flavors with a unique texture that’s perfect for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. Plus it’s incredibly versatile—you can bake or air fry it depending on your preference. Once you try this Cheez It Chicken recipe you’ll see why it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite for busy families and snack lovers alike.
Ingredients
To make our delicious Cheez It Chicken, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that bring out the best in this crispy, cheesy dish. Below are the essentials broken down for easy preparation.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking)
- 2 large eggs (beaten, to help the Cheez It coating adhere)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing before baking or air frying)
For the Cheez It Coating
- 3 cups crushed Cheez It crackers (finely crushed for full coverage and crispy texture)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds extra cheesy flavor and richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cheez It crackers | 3 cups | Crispy cheesy coating |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Enhances cheesy flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds savory aroma |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Boosts overall flavor profile |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | Imparts smoky undertone |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Balances flavors |
Optional Seasonings and Dips
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend for herby notes)
- Cayenne pepper (a pinch for mild heat)
- Ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping
- Fresh parsley or chives (finely chopped for garnish and freshness)
We recommend customizing the optional seasonings and dips to suit your taste preferences, elevating the classic Cheez It Chicken experience.
Equipment Needed
To create our Cheez It Chicken, having the right equipment ensures a crisp, golden coating and perfectly cooked chicken every time. Here’s what we need in our kitchen arsenal:
- Mixing bowls: At least two are essential—one for whisking the eggs and another for combining the crushed Cheez It crackers and seasonings.
- Food processor or plastic bag and rolling pin: For crushing the Cheez It crackers finely yet with some texture to create that irresistible crunch.
- Wire rack and baking sheet: Placing the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even browning and crispiness.
- Tongs: For safely handling the chicken breasts during dipping and transferring to the baking setup.
- Whisk or fork: For beating the eggs smoothly.
- Meat thermometer: To accurately check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Oven or air fryer: Depending on your preferred cooking method, we’ll need either of these to bake or air fry our chicken to perfection.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Dip and coat chicken |
| Food processor/plastic bag & rolling pin | Crush Cheez It crackers |
| Wire rack & baking sheet | Evenly crisp chicken in oven |
| Tongs | Safe handling of chicken |
| Whisk or fork | Beat eggs |
| Meat thermometer | Ensure chicken cooked safely |
| Oven or air fryer | Cook the chicken crispy and thoroughly |
Having these tools ready allows us to proceed smoothly through the steps—maintaining clean hands and efficient workflow while delivering that unbeatable crispy texture that defines Cheez It Chicken.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, getting the Prep Work right is crucial for our Cheez It Chicken to turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful. Let’s start by preparing the chicken and crushing the star ingredient: the Cheez Its.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim and Pound the Chicken Breasts
Begin with boneless skinless chicken breasts. Trim off any excess fat or tendons for a clean bite.
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
Tip: Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag before pounding to avoid mess.
- Season the Chicken
Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper. For enhanced flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or your preferred dried herbs.
This subtle seasoning balances the richness of the Cheez It coating and creates a mouthwatering base.
- Set Up a Dredging Station
We prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour for initial coating, another with beaten eggs to help the crumbs stick, and the last with the Cheez It cracker mixture. This set-up streamlines coating and keeps our hands clean.
Crushing the Cheez Its
For that signature crunch and cheesy kick, crushing the Cheez Its perfectly is key.
| Method | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor | Pulse about 2 cups of Cheez It crackers until they are finely crushed but not powdery. | Use short pulses to control texture. |
| Plastic Bag + Rolling Pin | Place crackers in a heavy-duty resealable bag. Roll over with a rolling pin pressing firmly. | Avoid bursting the bag by removing excess air first. |
| Hands | For rustic texture pinch and crumble crackers with fingers into smaller pieces. | Adds varied crunch but may be less uniform. |
We want the crumbs to resemble coarse breadcrumbs with small visible bits for maximum crispiness.
Pro tip: Mix in Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder directly into the crushed Cheez Its to elevate the flavor even before the chicken hits the pan.
Our Prep Work sets the stage for a flawless Cheez It Chicken — crisp, cheesy, and thoroughly cooked every time.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these clear steps to achieve perfectly crispy Cheez It Chicken with a golden crust and juicy center. We will guide you through breading, baking, and an alternative pan-frying method to suit your preference.
Breading the Chicken
- Trim and flatten the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Arrange your dredging station:
- Dish 1: All-purpose flour
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs
- Dish 3: Crushed Cheez It mixture seasoned with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and optional herbs.
- Coat each breast by:
- Dredging in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dipping into beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip.
- Pressing firmly into the Cheez It crumb mixture, ensuring an even, thick coat.
- Place coated chicken on a wire rack to set while preparing to cook.
Baking the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Place the breaded chicken on the baking sheet or on a wire rack set over the baking sheet for better air circulation.
- Lightly drizzle or spray the chicken with olive oil to enhance browning and crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
| Step | Detail | Temperature/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Preheat | Set oven to 400°F (204°C) | 400°F (204°C) |
| Baking Duration | Bake chicken, flipping halfway | 20-25 minutes |
| Internal Temp | Chicken fully cooked | 165°F (74°C) |
| Resting Time | Let chicken rest after baking | 5 minutes |
Pan-Frying Option
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the breaded chicken breasts gently in the skillet without overcrowding.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
With these detailed instructions, our Cheez It Chicken recipe will deliver a perfectly crispy texture with tender juicy bites every time.
Tips for Best Results
To master the art of Cheez It Chicken, following these tips will ensure every bite is crispy, flavorful, and juicy. Let us guide you to achieve the perfect balance of texture and taste.
How to Get Extra Crispy Coating
- Use Fresh Cheez Its: Old or stale crackers lose crunch, so choose fresh Cheez Its for a vibrant, crispy crust.
- Crush to Coarse Crumbs: Aim for coarse crumbs, not fine powder, by pulsing briefly in a food processor or crushing with a rolling pin. This texture locks in crispiness.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Mixing grated Parmesan into the crushed Cheez Its enhances crispiness and adds depth in flavor.
- Lightly Coat in Flour: Dredging chicken in flour before dipping in egg helps the coating adhere better, producing a crunchier exterior.
- Chill Before Baking: Let breaded chicken rest in the fridge 15-20 minutes. This sets the crust and prevents it from sliding off during cooking.
- Use a Wire Rack: Bake chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation, ensuring all-around crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give each piece enough space while baking or air frying to maintain heat circulation and a crispy coating.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Planning ahead can save time and maintain your Cheez It Chicken quality for later enjoyment.
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| Prep and Coat Early | Bread the chicken, then cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours before cooking to save time. |
| Freezing Option | Freeze coated chicken on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to cook time. |
| Storage | Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. |
| Reheating | Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. |
Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent soggy crust. Using an oven or air fryer keeps the bite crispy and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Cheez It Chicken experience, pairing this crispy, cheesy delight with complementary sides and dips enhances every bite. Here are our favorite ways to serve this irresistible dish:
Side Dish Pairings
We recommend balancing the rich, crunchy texture of our Cheez It Chicken with fresh and vibrant sides:
- Crisp garden salad: A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds refreshing brightness.
- Roasted vegetables: Think asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs.
- Creamy mashed potatoes: Smooth and buttery mash contrasts the crunchy coating perfectly.
- Garlic Parmesan pasta: A simple side of al dente pasta with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese elevates the meal’s cheesy theme.
Dip and Sauce Options
Serving Cheez It Chicken with dips creates a fun and tasty way to enjoy every bite. Popular choices include:
| Dip / Sauce | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | Cool, creamy, herby | Cuts through the crispy richness |
| Marinara sauce | Tangy, savory tomato base | Adds a zesty contrast |
| Honey mustard | Sweet and tangy | Complements the savory coating |
| Spicy sriracha mayo | Creamy with a spicy kick | Adds heat and creaminess |
Plating Tips
- Arrange the Cheez It Chicken pieces on a wire rack or serving platter to keep their coating crisp.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma.
- Add lemon wedges on the side for a squeeze of brightness that cuts the richness.
“Serving the chicken immediately after cooking and pairing it with fresh and tangy sides ensures each bite stays crispy and flavorful.”
By combining these suggestions, our Cheez It Chicken transforms from a simple entrée into a complete, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
Conclusion
Cheez It Chicken is a fantastic way to bring a crispy cheesy twist to your dinner table without much fuss. Its versatility lets us bake or air-fry, making it perfect for any kitchen setup. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
By mastering the coating and cooking techniques, we ensure every bite delivers that satisfying crunch and juicy flavor. Plus, the variety of serving options means we can easily customize it to suit any taste or occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a deliciously unique meal that’s sure to become a favorite in our homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheez It Chicken?
Cheez It Chicken is a crispy, cheesy chicken dish made by coating tender chicken breasts in crushed Cheez It crackers and baking or air-frying them for a flavorful, crunchy texture.
What ingredients are needed for Cheez It Chicken?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken breasts, eggs, olive oil, Cheez It crackers (crushed), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like Italian herbs or cayenne pepper.
Can I bake or air-fry Cheez It Chicken?
Yes, you can either bake it in the oven or cook it in an air fryer. Both methods result in a crispy, golden coating and juicy chicken.
How do I prepare the Cheez It coating?
Crush the crackers into coarse crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with Parmesan cheese and seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavorful coating.
What equipment do I need to make Cheez It Chicken?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a food processor or plastic bag with a rolling pin, a wire rack and baking sheet, tongs, a whisk or fork, a meat thermometer, and an oven or air fryer.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly?
Trim and pound the chicken breasts to even thickness, season them, coat evenly, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
How can I make the coating extra crispy?
Use fresh Cheez Its crushed to coarse crumbs, add Parmesan, lightly flour the chicken before coating, chill before cooking, use a wire rack, and avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet.
Can I prepare Cheez It Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prep and coat the chicken ahead of time. You can also freeze coated chicken for later cooking. Reheat carefully to maintain crispiness, avoiding microwaving.
What are some good side dishes for Cheez It Chicken?
Pair it with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, garlic Parmesan pasta, or serve with dips like ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo.
How should I serve and garnish Cheez It Chicken?
Arrange on a wire rack or platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and offer lemon wedges on the side to add brightness to the flavorful, crunchy chicken.