Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken

If you’re like me, always hunting for that next big hit in the kitchen, you’ll love this Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken! It’s a dish that’s found its way into the hearts and stomachs of my family, and once you try it, I’m sure it’ll be a favorite in your home too. I remember when I first made it; I had my doubts if it would become a regular on our dinner table. The allure of crispy cheddar cheese melding with the buttery goodness of Ritz crackers certainly won us over. My kids helped me, one dunking the chicken in milk, while the other pressed the cheese onto it—what a sight! You know those meals that bring folks together not just to eat but to share the joy of cooking? This one’s perfect for that.

What makes this recipe special isn’t just the taste, but how it turns a few simple ingredients into something delightful. It’s one of those dishes you can whip up on a busy weeknight or dress up a bit for company. It wasn’t too long ago, a close friend popped over unexpectedly right at dinner time. With hardly any time to prepare something grand, I pulled out a pack of chicken breasts from the freezer, grabbed some Ritz crackers, and voilà! I even had time to listen to all her stories while the chicken cooked its way to glory in the oven.

So, whether you’ve got a bustling household, or you simply love to surprise your loved ones with a new flavorful dish, this recipe has got you covered. And hey, don’t worry if you get crumbs all over the kitchen counter; that’s just proof of a good time spent whipping up a tasty meal. So, roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken

Click here to get printable version

Ingredients:

• 4 large chicken breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Directions:

1. Begin by cutting each chicken breast into three sizeable chunks.
2. Crush the Ritz crackers into crumbs using a small food processor.
3. Set up three shallow dishes: one with milk, another with grated cheddar cheese, and the last one with the cracker crumbs mixed with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken piece first into the milk, then coat it with cheese, and finally roll it in the cracker crumbs, patting gently to adhere the crumbs.
5. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by coating it with cooking spray, then place the chicken chunks in the dish.
6. Sprinkle dried parsley over the chicken to add a burst of extra flavor.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is crispy and golden on the edges.
8. While the chicken bakes, heat the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a medium saucepan, stirring until hot and smooth, then serve this rich sauce over the chicken.

Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry

Out of chicken breasts? Chicken thighs can be a juicier substitute. If you’re looking to cut down on the cheese, try a mix of lower-fat cheddar and mozzarella. For a gluten-free option, swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers. You can also use any other creamy soup if you prefer, like mushroom or celery.

Preserving Your Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken for Later

If you’ve got leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F until warm, to bring back some of that initial crispiness. Want it to last longer? Freeze it! Just make sure to wrap the pieces individually to maintain flavor and texture.

Perfect Pairings for Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken

This chicken dish shines when paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice for some added comfort. For a beverage, a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements it beautifully.

Secrets to Perfecting Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken

To ensure the cheese sticks well, press it firmly onto the chicken pieces before dunking them in the cracker crumbs. Letting the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before baking helps seal in flavors. Be sure to use fresh cheddar cheese for optimal melting. For added crispiness, allow some air circulation by spacing chicken pieces evenly in the baking dish.

Adding a Seasonal Spin to Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken

During the summer, add some lemon zest to the cracker mix for a citrusy twist. In the fall, try adding smoked paprika or cayenne for warmth. When winter rolls around, serve it with roasted root vegetables on the side. Springtime calls for a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives to brighten things up.

FAQs:

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

If you’re out of Ritz crackers, fear not! You can substitute with any similar buttery cracker or even breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free alternative, opt for gluten-free crackers or cornflakes crushed finely.

Can I prepare Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish a few hours ahead! Just coat and arrange the chicken in the baking dish, cover it, and place it in the fridge. When it’s time to cook, proceed with the baking step, but you might need a few extra minutes in the oven as it starts cold.

Is it possible to make this dish with other meats?

Certainly! This recipe can also be done with turkey or even pork fillets. Just adjust the cooking time since different meats cook at varied rates to ensure everything is tender and properly baked.

How can I make the dish less fattening?

To cut down on the calories, use low-fat cheese and soup. Opt for a reduced-fat butter alternative too. Baking the chicken on a rack within the baking dish may also help any excess fat drain off.

What’s the best way to crush the Ritz crackers?

While a food processor is the quickest way, you can also place the crackers in a zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This method is surprisingly effective and keeps cleanup to a minimum—plus, it’s a great stress reliever!

Can I freeze uncooked coated chicken?

Sure! Freeze the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet first to prevent them from sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, you may need extra time, but no need to thaw first—straight from the freezer to the oven works wonderfully!