Elevate your dinner table with Heart-Healthy White Cheddar Chicken, a flavorful dish that combines wholesome ingredients with a touch of indulgence. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are lightly seared and then topped with a delightful mix of reduced-fat white cheddar cheese and whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy finish. A drizzle of zesty lemon juice and olive oil adds brightness, while a side of tender, sautéed spinach brings nutrient-rich balance to your plate. This recipe is oven-baked to perfection and designed to be heart-healthy without sacrificing flavor. Ready in just 40 minutes and ideal for a weeknight dinner, this crowd-pleaser pairs protein-packed goodness with simple yet satisfying ingredients. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious, low-sodium recipe full of vibrant taste!
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all four chicken breasts.
2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings evenly over both sides of the chicken.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it in the prepared baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix the shredded white cheddar cheese and whole wheat panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Drizzle the lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and cheese topping.
6. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be melted and lightly browned.
7. While the chicken bakes, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the baby spinach along with the low-sodium chicken broth. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.
8. Serve the white cheddar chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Plate with a side of sautéed spinach for a complete, heart-healthy meal.
Calories |
1838 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 77.9 g | 100% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.5 g | 127% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 652 mg | 217% | |
| Sodium | 2633 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.9 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.7 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.7 g | ||
| Protein | 250.3 g | 501% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1038 mg | 80% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 2051 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.