Panko Cheddar Chicken

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Panko Cheddar Chicken is an easy baked chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken cutlets are topped with a buttery panko crust mixed with ranch seasoning and sharp cheddar cheese, then baked until golden and crispy!

Prep Time10

Cook Time14

Total Time24

Servings: Servings

Calories: 402kcal

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast cut into thin cutlets (about 6)
salt and pepper
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoon ranch seasoning
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)
1 cup pico de gallo

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425˚F.
Season chicken cutlets on each side with salt and pepper. Then lay them flat on a baking sheet. Spread a very thin coating of mayonnaise on the top side of each chicken breast.
In a medium bowl, melt the butter. Mix in the panko bread crumbs and ranch seasoning and stir until combined. Then stir in the cheddar cheese.
Spoon the panko topping over each chicken breast to cover the top of the chicken.
Bake on the top rack for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, 165˚F internal temp.
Remove the chicken from the oven and top with a scoop of pico de gallo. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

Substitutions: You can swap the sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. If you don’t have ranch seasoning, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and salt works well too.

How to Store: Store leftover panko cheddar chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Let the chicken cool completely before storing.

How to Freeze: Once cooled, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month. For best results, wrap pieces individually so they’re easy to reheat later.

How to Reheat: Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven or air fryer until warmed through to help restore the crispy topping. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the panko coating may soften.

How to Scale: This recipe is easy to double or halve depending on how many servings you need. Just be sure to spread the chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet so the topping crisps properly.

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