18 Irresistible Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipes for Every Occasion

recipesforlife

March 31, 2025

Are you looking for a new twist on classic comfort food? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 18 irresistible crispy cheddar chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. From tender bites to hearty casserole, these mouth-watering dishes showcase the versatility of crispy cheddar chicken.

Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, these recipes have got you covered. Try our Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip for a sweet and tangy treat, or go big with our Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken Parmesan for a satisfying dinner. And don’t even get us started on the sliders – Spicy Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sliders are a game-changer!

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring crispy chicken tenders smothered in a rich cheddar coating, served alongside a sweet and tangy honey mustard dip.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Honey Mustard Dip (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Honey Mustard Dip:

– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. Serve warm with crispy cheddar chicken tenders.

Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken Parmesan

Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken Parmesan
Transform your taste buds with this mouthwatering Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken Parmesan recipe, featuring crispy chicken topped with melted cheddar cheese and marinara sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

Spicy Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sliders

Spicy Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sliders
Spicy Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sliders Recipe

Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these addictive Spicy Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sliders, featuring juicy chicken breasts, crispy breading, and a kick of heat from spicy cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, with a dash of hot sauce (optional)
– 12 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a chicken breast on each bun, topping with shredded cheddar cheese (with hot sauce), and your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Bacon Wraps

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Bacon Wraps
A delicious twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines crispy chicken, savory bacon, and melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chicken strips, crumbled bacon, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken mixture on one half of each tortilla wrap, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla wrap over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the wraps are crispy and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Garlic Butter Crispy Cheddar Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Crispy Cheddar Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavors of garlic butter, crispy texture, and melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and paprika.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place chicken thighs on the sheet.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each thigh.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Nuggets with Ranch Dressing

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Nuggets with Ranch Dressing
Crispy Cheddar Chicken Nuggets with Ranch Dressing: A delicious twist on classic chicken nuggets, this recipe adds a rich and creamy ranch dressing to take it to the next level!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Air Fryer Crispy Cheddar Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Crispy Cheddar Chicken Bites
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Air Fryer Crispy Cheddar Chicken Bites. Tender and juicy chicken, smothered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumbs, all without deep-frying!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and softened butter.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place chicken bites in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. While chicken is cooking, mix together grated cheddar cheese and softened butter.
6. Remove chicken from the Air Fryer and drizzle with cheddar cheese sauce. Serve hot!

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa
Transform ordinary quesadillas into a mouthwatering treat by adding crispy chicken, gooey cheddar cheese, and creamy avocado salsa. This flavorful twist is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
4. Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Butter one side of each tortilla.
6. Place a portion of shredded cheese on half of each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of chicken and another sprinkle of cheese.
7. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.
9. Serve with Avocado Salsa (recipe below).

Avocado Salsa:

– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Stir until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Buffalo Crispy Cheddar Chicken Wings

Buffalo Crispy Cheddar Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the flavors of buffalo wings, crispy chicken, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick indulgence.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the wings and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange wings in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Caesar Salad

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this crispy, cheesy, and indulgent twist on a classic Caesar. Crunchy chicken, tangy dressing, and melted cheddar cheese come together for a flavor-packed meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 tablespoons cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip chicken breasts in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss mixed greens with Caesar dressing and top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Slice crispy chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the salad.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the crunch of crispy chicken and the goodness of broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups crispy chicken topping (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Drain excess oil.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the chicken mixture, followed by half of the cheddar sauce, then half of the broccoli. Repeat layers.
6. Top with crispy chicken topping and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

BBQ Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Crispy Cheddar Chicken Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with these crispy, cheesy, and tangy BBQ chicken sandwiches. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until crispy and cooked through.
4. Place fried chicken breasts on hamburger buns and drizzle with BBQ sauce. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines crispy cheddar chicken, creamy lime crema, and crunchy taco shells. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Dip chicken breasts in olive oil, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing cooked chicken and placing it on a warmed tortilla with lime crema, sliced radishes, and cilantro (optional).

Lime Crema:

– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Panko-Crusted Crispy Cheddar Chicken Cutlets

Panko-Crusted Crispy Cheddar Chicken Cutlets
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and satisfying recipe! Crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, melted cheddar cheese, and juicy chicken come together for a flavor-packed meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix Panko breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate dish, beat the egg. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat in the Panko-cheddar mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, crispy exterior, and juicy interior.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup

Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup
Crispy Cheddar Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup: A Southern-inspired breakfast or brunch recipe that combines the crispy goodness of fried chicken, the comfort of waffles, and the sweetness of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 waffle iron and mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Maple syrup for serving

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken breasts in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile, cook waffles according to package instructions or recipe.
6. Place fried chicken on top of waffles and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled over the top.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and crunchy recipe! Crispy cheddar chicken stuffed peppers are perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake
Crispy Cheddar Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake: A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds crispy chicken and a crunchy topping for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Combine cooked macaroni and chicken into the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust

Crispy Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting, cheesy twist on the classic chicken pot pie, this recipe combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich cheddar sauce in a flaky, buttery crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic until tender. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with chicken mixture and pour in cream.
4. Top with cheddar cheese and cover with remaining pie crust.
5. Brush crust with butter and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in 18 mouth-watering crispy cheddar chicken recipes perfect for any occasion! From classic comfort food to spicy twists, these irresistible dishes will satisfy your cravings. Recipes include Crispy Cheddar Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip, Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken Parmesan, and many more delicious variations. Whether you’re a fan of tenders, nuggets, or sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the crispiest, cheesiest chicken dishes ever!

Leave a Comment