Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners

Dinner Dilemma Solved: Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken!

Tired of the weeknight dinner scramble leaving you with bland, uninspired meals? Are you constantly searching for that perfect balance between ease, flavor, and a touch of comfort food magic that the whole family will adore? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone! Many home cooks struggle to find recipes that deliver on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen. But what if I told you there’s a way to achieve incredibly juicy, tender chicken with a golden, unbelievably crispy, and cheesy crust that’s surprisingly simple to make? This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken recipe is precisely that solution – a culinary superhero for your busy evenings, transforming humble ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Get ready to discover your new go-to for an easy, satisfying dinner that tastes like a gourmet treat!

What You’ll Need for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

The beauty of this Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken lies in its simplicity, using readily available ingredients to create a dish that sings with flavor and texture. We’re aiming for that perfect crunch, tender chicken, and a hint of savory goodness in every bite.

The Star: Juicy Chicken Breasts

• 2-3 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (approx. 1.5 lbs): Look for breasts of similar thickness for even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, just adjust cooking time. The goal is tender, succulent meat.

The Irresistible Ritz Cracker Coating

• 3 cups Ritz Crackers, finely crushed: This is the heart of the crunch! About one standard sleeve of crackers. The buttery, slightly salty flavor of Ritz is irreplaceable here. You want them fine enough to coat evenly but not pulverized into dust.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: For that irresistible umami kick and extra crispiness. Use finely grated for best adhesion.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth that complements the buttery crackers.
• 1/2 teaspoon Paprika: For a touch of color and a subtle, sweet peppery note. Smoked paprika can add another layer of flavor!
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best for that pungent aroma and bite.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Adjust to taste, remembering that Ritz crackers and Parmesan are already salty.

The Binder & Flavor Boosters

• 2 Large Eggs: Whisked, these act as the crucial binder, ensuring the cracker coating adheres beautifully.
• 1/4 cup Melted Butter: This is key for both flavor and achieving that signature golden-brown crispiness. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness better.

Optional: Creamy Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: The creamy base for our dipping sauce. Use full-fat for the best texture and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and a lighter texture.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard: For a zesty, sharp kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy notes.
• Pinch of Garlic Powder and Pepper: To enhance the flavor.

When You’re Short on Time: Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

This recipe is a weeknight winner! While the average baked chicken dinner can easily stretch beyond an hour with marinating or complex sauces, our Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken comes together in just about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. The active prep is minimal (15 minutes), and the baking time is efficient, making it perfect for those evenings when dinner needs to be on the table, fast.

Let’s Get Crispy: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels – this is crucial for the coating to stick well and for that extra crispy finish. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can either pound them gently to an even thickness (about 3/4 inch) using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, or slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets. This ensures they cook through evenly and quickly. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Crush Those Ritz Crackers

Now for the star of the coating – the Ritz crackers! Place the crackers into a large zip-top bag. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and then use a rolling pin, the bottom of a glass, or even a food processor to crush them into fine crumbs. You’re looking for a texture that’s mostly fine crumbs with a few slightly larger pieces for textural interest. Pour the crushed crackers into a shallow dish or a pie plate. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper to the cracker crumbs. Stir everything together until well combined. This is your flavor-packed, crispy coating!

Step 3: The Magical Coating Process

We need a binder to make that delicious coating stick. In a second shallow dish, whisk the two large eggs until they’re well beaten. Now, working one piece of chicken at a time, dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Let any excess egg drip off for a second. Then, transfer the egg-coated chicken to the dish with the Ritz cracker mixture. Press the chicken firmly into the crumbs, turning to coat both sides thoroughly. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered for maximum crispiness. You can even use your hands to gently press the crumbs onto the chicken.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the tops of the coated chicken breasts. This butter will help the crumbs toast and turn wonderfully golden and crispy. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is a beautiful, deep golden brown and incredibly crunchy. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken.

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Dipping Sauce (Optional)

While the chicken is baking, you can quickly prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, and a pinch of pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This creamy, tangy sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the crispy chicken. Let it chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutritional Snapshot

While this is a comfort food, understanding its nutritional profile is helpful. A typical serving (based on 3-4 oz chicken breast, without sauce) offers:

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal (will vary based on exact chicken size and coating adherence)
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 18-25g (combines butter, oil, and from crackers/cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g (primarily from cracker crumbs)

*This is an estimation. Precise values depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Healthier Twists on Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Want to lighten this up without sacrificing too much flavor or that satisfying crunch? Try these swaps:

• Whole Wheat Crackers: Swap some or all of the Ritz crackers for whole wheat cracker crumbs for added fiber.
• Reduced-Fat Cheese: Use a reduced-fat Parmesan if desired.
• Less Butter: Lightly brush the chicken with cooking spray before baking instead of using melted butter, or use just 1-2 tablespoons of butter for drizzling.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispier result with less oil.
• Lighter Sauce: Use Greek yogurt as the base for your dipping sauce instead of mayonnaise for a protein boost and reduced fat.

Serving Up Success: What to Pair with Your Crispy Chicken

This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with:

• Classic Comfort Sides: Mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, or steamed green beans.
• Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad or a vibrant Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the richness.
• Hearty Grains: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for a more complete meal.
• Pasta: Toss with your favorite pasta and a light marinara or alfredo sauce.
• Sandwiches: Slice the cooked chicken and use it in sandwiches or wraps.

Dodging Disaster: Common Crispy Chicken Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls for perfectly crispy chicken every time:

• Not Drying the Chicken: Excess moisture prevents the coating from adhering properly.
• Uneven Thickness: Chicken pieces that are too thick or too thin will cook unevenly.
• Overcrowding the Pan: This causes the chicken to steam rather than bake and crisp up. Bake in batches if necessary.
• Not Pressing the Coating: Gently pressing the crumbs onto the chicken ensures a thick, even, and adhered crust.
• Skipping the Butter Drizzle: The butter is essential for that golden-brown, toasty finish and extra flavor.

Storing Your Crispy Chicken Creations

Leftover Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, be aware that the coating will lose some of its crispiness upon refrigeration. For the best results when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven at around 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Microwaving will result in a softer, less crispy texture.

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken: Your New Weeknight Hero

There you have it – a recipe for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken that’s incredibly flavorful, satisfyingly crunchy, and surprisingly easy to whip up on any night of the week. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles to the table and makes everyone feel like they’re enjoying a special occasion, even on a Tuesday. Don’t let busy schedules keep you from enjoying delicious, home-cooked food. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create a truly memorable meal.

Ready to make dinner a delight? Try this Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken recipe tonight and let us know how much your family loves it in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

***Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers?***

Yes, you can! Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crispy coating, which is also delicious. However, you will lose the unique buttery, slightly salty flavor that Ritz crackers provide. If you use panko, you might want to add a touch more salt and garlic powder to your coating mixture.

***Can this recipe be made ahead of time?***

You can prepare the components ahead of time. Crush the crackers and mix the dry ingredients, and whisk the eggs. You can even coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to a few hours before baking. However, for the best crispy texture, it’s ideal to bake it fresh. The dipping sauce can be made a day in advance.

***What’s the best way to guarantee a super crispy crust?***

Ensuring the chicken is dry, pressing the crumbs firmly, not overcrowding the pan, and drizzling with melted butter are the key factors. Baking at the correct temperature and for the right amount of time also ensures crispiness rather than sogginess. Using an air fryer is also a superb method.

***Can I make this gluten-free?***

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs as the base for your coating. Ensure your Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain anti-caking agents with gluten.

Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

ThisCrispy Cheesy Baked Chickenrecipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy, tender chicken with a crunchy, cheesy crust and a creamy sauce for dipping. Perfect for a family dinner or an indulgent treat!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4boneless, skinless chicken breasts1sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed2 cupsshredded cheddar cheese1/4 cupmilk1large eggSalt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• 1sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed2 cupsshredded cheddar cheese1/4 cupmilk1large eggSalt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• 2 cupsshredded cheddar cheese1/4 cupmilk1large eggSalt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cupmilk1large eggSalt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• 1large eggSalt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• Salt, to tasteGarlic pepper, to taste
• Garlic pepper, to taste
• 1can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup1/4 cupmilk2 tablespoonssour cream2 tablespoonsbutter
• 1/4 cupmilk2 tablespoonssour cream2 tablespoonsbutter
• 2 tablespoonssour cream2 tablespoonsbutter
• 2 tablespoonsbutter

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Preheat and prepare the pan:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.2️⃣Set up coating stations:In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup of milk. Place the crushed Ritz crackers in another shallow dish and the shredded cheddar cheese in a third.3️⃣Season and coat the chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste. Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken, then coat it with crushed Ritz crackers.4️⃣Bake the chicken:Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.5️⃣Make the sauce:While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and heated through.6️⃣Serve and enjoy:Serve the crispy chicken hot, with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with parsley if desired.
2. 2️⃣Set up coating stations:In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup of milk. Place the crushed Ritz crackers in another shallow dish and the shredded cheddar cheese in a third.3️⃣Season and coat the chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste. Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken, then coat it with crushed Ritz crackers.4️⃣Bake the chicken:Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.5️⃣Make the sauce:While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and heated through.6️⃣Serve and enjoy:Serve the crispy chicken hot, with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with parsley if desired.
3. 3️⃣Season and coat the chicken:Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste. Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken, then coat it with crushed Ritz crackers.
4. 4️⃣Bake the chicken:Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.5️⃣Make the sauce:While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and heated through.6️⃣Serve and enjoy:Serve the crispy chicken hot, with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with parsley if desired.
5. 5️⃣Make the sauce:While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and heated through.6️⃣Serve and enjoy:Serve the crispy chicken hot, with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with parsley if desired.
6. 6️⃣Serve and enjoy:Serve the crispy chicken hot, with the creamy sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Notes

For extra crispiness, bake the chicken on a wire rack placed over the baking pan.Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Try swapping cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.