BBQ Cheddar Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 boneless
skinless chicken breasts, about 1.3 pounds total
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. If your chicken breasts are very thick or uneven in thickness, use a mallet or rolling pin to first pound them out to a more even thickness. Slice the chicken breasts in half, so you have four pieces.
- 2
Combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken dry with paper towel, then sprinkle the seasoning mix over both sides of each piece of chicken.
- 3
Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a baking dish, then spoon 1 Tbsp BBQ sauce over top of each piece, spreading it from edge to edge to cover the chicken.
- 4
Bake the chicken in the preheated 400ºF oven for about 18 minutes (less for smaller or thinner pieces).
- 5
Remove the chicken from the oven and top each piece with shredded cheddar. Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking for five minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.
- 6
After baking the chicken, let the chicken rest for five minutes, then top with diced red onion and chopped cilantro just before serving.
BBQ Cheddar Baked Chicken
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About this Recipe
Tired of dry, uninspired chicken dinners? This BBQ Cheddar Baked Chicken recipe transforms simple boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a flavor-packed meal that's anything but boring. It's the kind of dish that brings comfort and excitement back to your dinner plate, making weeknights feel a little more special.
What makes this recipe truly shine is the thoughtful combination of classic flavors. Each chicken breast is seasoned with aromatic smoked paprika and garlic powder, creating a deeply savory base. This seasoned chicken is then generously coated with tangy BBQ sauce and topped with a blanket of gooey, shredded cheddar, ensuring every bite is moist and incredibly flavorful.
Prepare for tender, juicy chicken breasts, perfectly baked until golden, smothered in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce. The melted cheddar forms a delicious, savory crust that complements the chicken beautifully. A scattering of fresh diced red onion and bright cilantro adds a welcome pop of freshness and texture, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce. This dish is designed to be a satisfying experience, proving that baked chicken can be the star of your meal.
While fantastic as written, you can easily make this recipe your own. Swap the shredded cheddar for Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile. If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or chives can offer a similar herbaceous note. For those who like a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper mixed with the spices would add a delightful kick.
This BBQ Cheddar Baked Chicken is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something delicious without much fuss. Serve it alongside your favorite mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.