If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering dinner that combines the smoky allure of BBQ with the creamy richness of white cheddar, look no further! Our Baked White Cheddar BBQ Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Get ready to savor tender, juicy chicken smothered in zesty BBQ sauce and topped with gooey, melted cheese. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your weeknight meals!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice, baked texture.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. The paprika will add a subtle smokiness and color to the dish.
- In a large oven-safe baking dish, spread half of the BBQ sauce evenly on the bottom. This will help keep the chicken moist while baking.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the BBQ sauce in the baking dish. Ensure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Pour the remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated. This will infuse the chicken with flavor as it bakes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in during the initial baking stage. This will help the chicken cook through without drying out.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through before adding the cheese.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
- Serve the baked white cheddar BBQ chicken with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can season the chicken breasts and marinate them in the BBQ sauce a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavor even more!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the seasoning mix. A dash of garlic powder or some fresh herbs can take the flavor to the next level!
- Cheese Variations: While white cheddar is delicious, you can mix it up by adding other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Style: Pair your Baked White Cheddar BBQ Chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, this dish makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches or wraps the next day. Just shred the chicken and add it to your favorite bread or tortilla for a quick lunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 448kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 59g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 180mg
