Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe: Golden Goodness Made Simple

Crispy ritz cracker chicken brings a delightful crunch that transforms ordinary dinners into memorable meals.

Crushed crackers create an irresistible golden coating that seals in tender meat flavors.

Pantry staples become magic when mixed with simple seasonings and a dash of creativity.

Salt, pepper, and garlic powder dance together to enhance each bite’s richness.

We love how this recipe turns basic ingredients into something spectacular without complicated techniques.

Quick preparation means you can have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in less than an hour.

Dive into this comfort food classic that promises smiles and satisfied appetites.

FAQs About Ritz Cracker Chicken

• What are the key ingredients in Ritz Cracker Chicken?

Ritz crackers, chicken breasts, butter, and seasonings like garlic powder and salt are the main components that create the crispy, flavorful coating.

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken breasts work best, you can also use chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken thighs for variety.

• How do I ensure the chicken stays moist while getting a crispy coating?

Dip the chicken in melted butter before coating with crushed Ritz crackers, which helps seal in moisture and creates a golden, crunchy exterior.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Most children love the crispy texture and mild flavor of Ritz Cracker Chicken, making it a great meal for families with picky eaters.

Why Ritz Cracker Chicken Is a Crowd-Pleaser

• Crush and Coat with Ease: Transform ordinary Ritz crackers into a crispy, golden coating that delivers maximum crunch without complicated techniques, making this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Kid-Approved Dinner Solution: Tender chicken dressed in buttery cracker crumbs creates a universally loved meal that satisfies picky eaters and brings families together around the dinner table with minimal fuss.
• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Utilize common kitchen staples like crackers, chicken, and basic seasonings, ensuring you can create a delicious dinner without last-minute grocery store runs or expensive specialty ingredients.
• Versatile Meal Option: Adaptable recipe that works wonderfully for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, allowing you to customize seasonings and serve with various side dishes to suit different preferences.

Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, boneless cuts that form the protein base of this crispy baked dish.
• Ritz Crackers: Classic buttery crackers that create a golden, crunchy coating for the chicken.

• Mayonnaise, Sour Cream: Creamy components that help the cracker coating stick to the chicken and add rich flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Tangy condiment that provides a subtle kick and enhances the overall taste profile.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Aromatic spices that boost the chicken's savory flavor and complement the crispy coating.
• Dried Parsley: Herb that adds a touch of color and mild herbal note to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ritz Cracker Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.

Step 2: Create Coating Stations

• Flour seasoned with salt and pepper
• Beaten eggs
• Crushed Ritz crackers mixed with dried herbs

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Pieces

Dip each chicken piece through the coating stations in this order:

First, coat completely in seasoned flour

Next, dip into beaten eggs

Finally, roll generously in herbed Ritz cracker crumbs, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even crispy cooking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and delicious. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips for Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Crush Crackers Perfectly: Use a rolling pin or food processor to create fine, even crumbs for a consistent, crispy coating that adheres well to the chicken.
• Prevent Dryness: Dip chicken in melted butter before coating with Ritz cracker crumbs to lock in moisture and create a golden, crunchy exterior.
• Season Strategically: Mix dried herbs or garlic powder into the cracker crumbs for an extra flavor boost that elevates the entire dish.
• Room Temperature Matters: Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking and a more tender result.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165F (74C) internally, guaranteeing safe and juicy meat every time.

Variation Ideas for Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Gluten-Free Crunch Chicken: Replace Ritz crackers with crushed gluten-free rice crackers or cornflakes for a celiac-friendly version.
• Herb-Infused Coating Chicken: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano into the cracker crumbs for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Low-Carb Crispy Chicken: Swap Ritz crackers with ground pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative that maintains a crispy texture.
• Spicy Kick Chicken: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the cracker coating for a zesty, heat-packed meal.

Pairing Suggestions for Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Elevate with Crisp White Wine: Pair this crunchy chicken with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of the buttery Ritz cracker coating.
• Complement with Zesty Side Salad: Toss a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the crispy, savory chicken and add a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Match with Creamy Coleslaw: Serve a cool, creamy coleslaw alongside the chicken to provide a smooth texture that complements the crunchy exterior of the dish.
• Boost with Tangy Dipping Sauce: Create a quick honey mustard or ranch dip to enhance the flavor profile and add an extra layer of excitement to each bite.

Storage Tips for Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Restore crispiness by placing chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm at 350F (175C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Cover loosely with foil to prevent burning.
• Use sparingly as it can make the crispy coating soggy. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each burst to maintain texture and prevent overcooking.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: Not specified
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Crispy Ritz cracker chicken brings Southern comfort to dinner tables with its golden, crunchy coating. Crushed crackers create an irresistible exterior that locks in juicy chicken flavors, making this classic dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half

Coating and Cheese:

• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
• 3 cups (340 grams) grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Seasonings:

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Crush Ritz crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor.
4. Mix crushed crackers with grated Parmesan cheese, creating a seasoned coating mixture.
5. Dip each chicken breast into melted butter, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Roll the butter-coated chicken in the cracker-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere completely.
7. Arrange coated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
8. Sprinkle any remaining cracker mixture over the top of the chicken for extra crunch.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

• Crush crackers finely to ensure an even, crispy coating that adheres perfectly to the chicken.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein option that cooks quickly and evenly.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends in the cracker mixture to customize the flavor profile, such as adding dried herbs or garlic powder.

• Prep Time: Not specified
• Cook Time: Not specified
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 674 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 785 mg
• Fat: 44 g
• Saturated Fat: 23 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 48 g
• Cholesterol: 155 mg