Description
Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken
This Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken is a dinner winner! Juicy chicken topped with a cheesy, buttery cracker crust that’s baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breasts
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tsp onion powder
Fresh parsley for topping
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare a baking dish.
Mix cracker crumbs, cheese, and onion powder.
Dip chicken in melted butter, then coat with cracker mix.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until crispy and golden.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot with sides.
#DinnerMadeDelicious
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a small amount of the melted butter.
2. Prepare the coating. Place a sleeve of Ritz crackers in a large zip-top bag. Seal it and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. Pour the crumbs into a shallow bowl and mix thoroughly with the shredded cheddar cheese and onion powder.
3. Prepare the chicken. Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for the coating to stick properly.
4. Dredge the chicken. Pour the melted butter into a separate shallow bowl. Take one chicken breast, dip it fully into the melted butter, allowing excess to drip off. Then, press it firmly into the cracker-cheese mixture, turning to coat all sides. Use your hands to pack the coating onto the chicken for maximum coverage.
5. Place the coated chicken breast in the prepared baking dish. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F and the crust is a deep, golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest in the dish for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with lighter, fresh sides to balance the meal. Consider serving it with:
- Steamed green beans, asparagus, or a crisp garden salad.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf to soak up the delicious flavors.
- For a low-carb option, try cauliflower mash or roasted broccoli.
- A dollop of cool sour cream or a simple lemon wedge on the side adds a nice contrast.
How-to Summary
Dry chicken, dip in butter, coat in a cheesy Ritz cracker crumb mixture, and bake at 375°F until golden and cooked through. The result is incredibly juicy chicken with an irresistible, crispy, and cheesy crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Bone-in or boneless thighs work well but may require a slightly longer baking time. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or a conventional oven at 375°F for best crispiness. The microwave will soften the crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use a certified gluten-free cracker brand in place of Ritz crackers.
Why is my coating not sticking to the chicken? The most common reason is not patting the chicken dry before dipping. Moisture on the surface creates a barrier. Ensure the chicken is very dry and press the coating on firmly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can coat the chicken up to 4 hours in advance. Store it covered on the baking dish in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Chicken: Skipping this step leads to a soggy, patchy crust.
- Uneven Crushing: Cracker crumbs that are too large won’t adhere well. Aim for a fine, sandy consistency with some small bits for texture.
- Not Packing the Coating: Gently placing the chicken in the crumbs isn’t enough. Press firmly to create a solid, even layer.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Leave space between chicken breasts for proper air circulation and even browning.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting in immediately will cause the flavorful juices to run out, leaving drier meat.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that is deceptively simple to make. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly crispy, cheesy crust enveloping tender, juicy chicken every single time. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary, delicious dinner.
