Cheesy Onion Chicken
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish like Cheesy Onion Chicken. This is one of those recipes that always brings back memories of cozy family dinners and delicious aromas wafting through the house. I remember the first time I made it for my family; everyone gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating the crispy, cheesy goodness that awaited them. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. You can almost hear the crunch of the fried onions and feel the creaminess of the melted parmesan in every bite. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings smiles and satisfaction. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, you’ll find joy in creating this beloved dish.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
380 kcal
36 g
Standard
20 g
Mixing Bowl, Whisk, Oven, Grater, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet
The Magic of This Cheesy Onion Chicken
Unmatched Flavor
The combination of chicken, fried onions, and parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The savory notes of the fried onions complement the chicken perfectly, while the parmesan adds a creamy richness that ties it all together.
Crispy Texture
One of the best things about Cheesy Onion Chicken is the texture. When baked, the coating becomes crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the tender chicken. Each bite is a wonderful balance of crunch and tenderness.
Simple Ingredients
No need for exotic ingredients here! This recipe uses everyday items like eggs, mayonnaise, and panko, which you probably already have in your pantry. This makes it an accessible choice for any home cook.
Quick and Easy Preparation
With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just prep, coat, and bake!
Versatile Meals
Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Cheesy Onion Chicken adapts beautifully to any occasion. Pair it with a salad for a light meal or serve with mashed potatoes for a hearty feast.
Kid-Friendly
Kids love it! The crispy coating and cheesy flavor make it an instant hit among little ones. It’s a great way to introduce them to chicken without any fuss.
Ingredients Overview for Cheesy Onion Chicken
The ingredients for Cheesy Onion Chicken are straightforward yet full of flavor. They work together to create a dish that’s rich, crunchy, and satisfying. The key players—chicken, fried onions, and parmesan—bring a delightful combination of taste and texture that will leave you craving more.
- 2 lb chicken tenders: Tender and juicy, these pieces are perfect for easy cooking and quick serving.
- 1 (2.8-oz) package French’s fried onions, crushed: Adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor, elevating the dish to another level.
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy and savory coating.
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs: These crumbs provide extra crispiness that complements the fried onions.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle but important layer of flavor to the dish.
- 2 eggs: Lightly beaten, they help bind the coating to the chicken.
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise: Brings moisture and richness to the egg mixture.
- 2 Tbsp water: Aids in achieving the right consistency for the egg mixture.
- 1/4 cup flour: Used for dredging, it helps the coating stick to the chicken.
Making Cheesy Onion Chicken
Creating Cheesy Onion Chicken is a delightful journey that combines simplicity with flavor. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s sure to impress.
- Preheat your oven to 400º F. Line a baking sheet with non-stick foil to make cleanup easier later.
- In a shallow dish, combine the crushed fried onions, parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and garlic powder. Mix them well, and let the flavors mingle.
- In another dish, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, and water. This mixture will help your coating adhere wonderfully to the chicken.
- In a separate shallow dish, place the flour. This will be the first step in the dredging process.
- Take each piece of chicken tender and dip it into the flour. Make sure to shake off any excess; this will ensure a nice coating.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Now, coat the chicken in the fried onion mixture. Press gently to make sure the coating sticks well.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking pan. Ensure they are spaced out for even cooking.
- Lightly spray the top of the chicken with cooking spray. This will help achieve a golden brown color while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the coating to be golden and crispy.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chicken Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165º F for safe consumption.
- Coating Technique: For a thicker coating, repeat the egg and onion steps for a second layer!
- Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps maintain juiciness.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Helpful Hints
As you prepare Cheesy Onion Chicken, here are some helpful hints to make your experience even better:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: Feel free to freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken for up to two months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad.
- Cooking Spray: A light spray of cooking oil will help achieve that beautiful golden color and crispiness.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can brighten the dish and add color!
- Leftover Uses: Use any leftovers in wraps or salads for a tasty lunch option!
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Onion Chicken
When it comes to serving Cheesy Onion Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here’s how to make the most of this delightful dish:
- Side Dishes: Pair with garlic mashed potatoes for a rich, creamy complement, or serve with steamed broccoli for a bit of crunch and color.
- Salads: A crisp Caesar salad makes a fantastic side, enhancing the cheesy flavors of the dish.
- Dips: Consider serving with a ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping; this adds an extra layer of flavor!
- Occasions: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Everyone will love it!
- Seasonal Pairings: In summer, fresh corn on the cob pairs beautifully, while in winter, roasted root vegetables are a hearty match.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers covered in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Cheesy Onion Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity and flavor in the most delightful way. Its crispy coating and savory filling make it a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to try making it at home; your family and friends will love the result. Plus, it’s easy enough that you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it during a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious experience of this comforting dish!
Cheesy Onion Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400º F. Line a baking sheet with non-stick foil to make cleanup easier later.
- In a shallow dish, combine the crushed fried onions, parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and garlic powder. Mix them well, and let the flavors mingle.
- In another dish, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, and water. This mixture will help your coating adhere wonderfully to the chicken.
- In a separate shallow dish, place the flour. This will be the first step in the dredging process.
- Take each piece of chicken tender and dip it into the flour. Make sure to shake off any excess; this will ensure a nice coating.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Now, coat the chicken in the fried onion mixture. Press gently to make sure the coating sticks well.
- Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking pan. Ensure they are spaced out for even cooking.
- Lightly spray the top of the chicken with cooking spray. This will help achieve a golden brown color while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the coating to be golden and crispy.
