Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe: The Perfect Comfort Dish!

If you’re on the hunt for a simple, yet utterly delicious dinner idea, Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken will quickly become your go-to meal. This recipe combines the buttery crunch of crushed Ritz crackers with savory Parmesan cheese and tender chicken breasts. The best part? It only takes a few ingredients and minimal effort to create a meal that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor!

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this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal. It’s:

• Quick and Easy: Only 10 minutes of prep, and the oven takes care of the rest!
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating is a hit with the little ones, making it a family favorite.
• Budget-Friendly: Ritz crackers and a few pantry staples turn plain chicken into something special.
• Versatile: This chicken pairs well with a wide variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to a light salad.

What Does Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Taste Like?

Think of a bite that combines the rich, buttery goodness of Ritz crackers with a punch of Parmesan and the warmth of garlic and paprika. As you sink your teeth into the chicken, you’ll be met with a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender, juicy meat. The flavor is a balanced mix of savory and slightly salty, with the fresh parsley garnish adding a bright finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, tender and juicy.
• 1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve): These buttery crackers create the perfect crispy coating.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch to the coating.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: For that subtle, savory garlic flavor.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a bit of color to the coating.
• ½ tsp black pepper: For a touch of heat.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances out the flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps the coating stick and adds extra richness.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: For a garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color.

Tools You’ll Need:

• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large bowl for mixing
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or tongs for coating the chicken

How to Make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.

2. Prepare the Coating

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will create that irresistible crispy coating.

3. Coat the Chicken

Melt the unsalted butter in a separate bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press the buttered chicken into the Ritz cracker mixture, covering all sides evenly. Don’t worry if it feels like a lot of coating—it’s what makes this chicken extra crispy!

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the coated chicken breasts into your greased baking dish. If you have any leftover butter, drizzle it over the top of the chicken for extra richness. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is baked to crispy perfection, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and get ready to dig in!

What to Serve with Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

This chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture is a perfect contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: Keep things light with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Salad: A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would complement the richness of the chicken.
• Buttery Noodles: Simple and classic, these add a comforting element to the meal.

Tips for the Best Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Don’t skip the butter: It helps the cracker coating stick and adds flavor to the chicken.
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly to 165°F.
• Customize the seasoning: You can easily adjust the spices to your taste. For a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Crush the crackers well: Make sure the Ritz crackers are finely crushed to ensure an even coating. You can place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them.

Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

To keep the chicken crispy when reheating, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap each breast individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and bake it at 350°F until crispy and hot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Absolutely! If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, you can substitute with any buttery or plain crackers. Panko breadcrumbs also work for a slightly different texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs might need a bit longer to reach the correct internal temperature.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers in place of the Ritz crackers.

What can I use instead of butter?

If you prefer, you can use olive oil in place of butter for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. The buttery cracker coating paired with the tender chicken inside will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to share your creations! Leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest—let’s see how crispy your chicken turns out!

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 720mg

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