Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts

Savor the Crispy Delights of Long John Silver's Style Fish Fillets

Embark on a flavor voyage with this Long John Silver's style fish batter recipe, merging the golden crispiness of deep-fried fish with a delectable homemade touch.

Whether it's a laid-back family dinner or a lively weekend gathering, this dish transports the iconic taste of the popular fast-food chain right to your dining table.

Ideal for an enjoyable evening or a joyous event, this recipe encapsulates the essence of that beloved fish fry experience. Ready to elevate your mealtime with a splash of fun and flavor? Let's dive into this straightforward and utterly rewarding recipe.

Flavorful and Crispy: Your New Go-To Fish Recipe

This Long John Silver's style fish batter not only recreates the classic crispiness but also amps up the flavor with a perfect blend of spices. Not just a meal, this is a foray into the art of frying, made simple enough for any home cook to master.

Here’s how you can achieve that signature crunch and mouth-watering taste, complete with professional tips to ensure every fillet turns out wonderfully.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Fish:

1. Consistent Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 375°F to ensure each fillet cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crispy texture.
2. Minimal Mixing: Combine your batter ingredients just until they're incorporated to avoid developing gluten, which can toughen the batter.
3. Fry in Batches: Keep your fillets from touching in the fryer to allow the oil to circulate fully, preventing soggy spots and sticking.
4. Effective Draining: After frying, let the fillets rest on a wire rack to drain excess oil without becoming moist on the bottom.
5. Immediate Serving: Dish out the fillets as soon as they're ready to preserve their crunch and heat, perfect alongside tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts Recipe:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 35–45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Equipment: 9×12 (3-quart) casserole dish, two low shallow dishes, small pan or microwave-safe bowl, digital thermometer

With these Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts, your oven does the work while you enjoy the aroma of bubbling cheese and toasty crumbs. For an easy, cozy side, many cooks like serving a slice of warm bread; this simple loaf is a favorite: Easy Dutch Oven No-Knead Bread.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6–7 oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Cooking spray for the dish

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×12 casserole dish (or similar 3-quart dish) with cooking spray and set aside. Meanwhile, clear your counter so coating stays tidy. For busy nights, plan a make-ahead dessert like this no-bake classic: No-Bake Chocolate Éclair Cake.
2. Combine the Coating: In a low, shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. Stir well so every crumb gets cheesy. This blend gives the Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts their signature crust.
3. Melt Butter and Season: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. (Or microwave it in a small microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute, until melted.) Add onion powder and garlic powder. Mix well, then transfer to a second shallow dish.
4. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. This step matters, because seasoning under the coating keeps flavors balanced.
5. Dip, Press, and Place: Dip each chicken breast into the butter mixture, coating all sides. Then press into the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, turning to cover completely. Place the coated breasts in the prepared casserole dish. If your family loves ranch flavors, consider pairing tonight’s dinner with tomorrow’s lunch plan: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole with Potatoes.
6. Top and Drizzle: Sprinkle a little of the extra breadcrumbs over the chicken and press gently so it adheres. Drizzle some of the remaining butter mixture over the tops to encourage even browning and richer flavor.
7. Bake to Juicy Perfection: Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes, depending on breast size, until the chicken is cooked through. Use a digital thermometer and cook until the thickest part reaches 165°F. During the last 3–5 minutes, you may broil briefly for deeper color, though keep a close eye on the crust.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so juices settle. Then serve hot. For a complete comfort meal, pair with a classic casserole like this creamy favorite: Green Bean Casserole.

Flavorful and Family-Friendly: Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts Sides & Success Guide

Because Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts bake hands-off, you can focus on sides. Try a bright vegetable or a simple salad to balance the rich crust. For a hearty starch, buttered noodles or fluffy rice both shine. However, many readers also love easy breads and sweet finishes. If that sounds like you, consider these crowd-pleasers for the table:

• For a fluffy biscuit to swipe through buttery pan juices, bake these ultra-tender Butter Swim Biscuits.
• For a set-and-forget chicken night later in the week, bookmark this creamy comfort: Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy.

Moreover, technique matters. Therefore, follow these simple cues for consistent results:

• Thickness Check: If some breasts are much thicker, gently pound to even thickness. Then coating browns uniformly.
• Rack Option: If you prefer an extra-dry crunch, set a wire rack inside the casserole and bake the chicken on the rack. Airflow helps the crust crisp.
• Cheese Swap: You can use sharp cheddar for bolder flavor. Alternatively, try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder, melty bite. Parmesan adds nutty depth, so don’t skip it.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Coat the chicken up to 6 hours ahead. Then cover and refrigerate. Before baking, drizzle with a touch more melted butter to refresh the crust.
• Leftovers Plan: Chill promptly. Reheat on a rack at 375°F until the crust is lively again. Thus, you’ll avoid sogginess.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts:

1. Season in Layers: Because flavor builds, season the meat first and the crumbs second. The result tastes complete, not just cheesy on top.
2. Use Dry Breadcrumbs: Dry crumbs absorb butter and cling better. Consequently, the crust sets crisp rather than gummy.
3. Mind the Butter: Toss crumbs with just enough fat for golden color. If they look sandy, that’s perfect. Too much butter can cause patchy browning.
4. Don’t Overbake: Pull the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F. Then let it rest. Overbaking dries lean meat quickly.
5. Finish Under the Broiler: Brief broiling adds a bistro-style finish. However, watch closely, since cheese browns fast.

If you’re planning a full chicken theme this month, you might also enjoy this creamy skillet favorite: Marry Me Chicken. It pairs beautifully with simple greens and roasted vegetables.

Ready to Relish!

These Baked Cheesy Chicken Breasts deliver a crunchy, cheesy crust and juicy, tender meat—no frying required. The method is simple, the results feel special, and cleanup stays easy. Additionally, the dish welcomes many sides, from crisp salads to warm breads. For another quick poultry classic to rotate in on weeknights, try these crispy, kid-approved Cheese Garlic Biscuits alongside your chicken plate.

Because the recipe scales well, you can double it for guests. Likewise, leftovers reheat beautifully for sandwiches or sliced over salad. Tonight, set the table, bring out a bright lemon wedge, and enjoy every crunchy, melty bite. Dinner is done, and it’s delicious.

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