Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s both quick and incredibly delicious? Look no further than the mouthwatering goodness of Effortless Ritz Cracker Chicken. This recipe is a game-changer, taking your regular chicken dinner to a whole new level of crispy, juicy perfection.

Imagine tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker crust that’s seasoned to perfection. The secret lies in the simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients that come together to create a dish that will have your family coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

The magic of this Effortless Ritz Cracker Chicken doesn’t stop at its irresistible taste. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to zesty lemony spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to bring everyone together around the table. So, roll up your sleeves, get those Ritz crackers ready, and let’s make some unforgettable culinary memories together.

Quick Benefits

Crunchy and Juicy: The Ritz cracker coating creates a super crunchy texture on the outside while keeping the chicken inside juicy and tender.
Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with different flavors like ranch powder or parmesan, and can be made with substitutions like mayo instead of eggs.
Family Favorite: A best-loved dinner that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Convenient for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for three days or frozen for up to three months, providing an easy reheatable option for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe Recipe

Flavorful and Crunchy Coating: The Ritz cracker coating adds a delicious buttery and crunchy texture to the chicken, making it incredibly satisfying to bite into.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients like Ritz crackers, butter, and chicken, this recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy or hard-to-find items.
Juicy and Tender Chicken: The chicken remains juicy and tender on the inside while the outside gets perfectly crispy, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
Family Favorite: This dish has won over the hearts of the blogger’s family and is a hit among kids, making it a great option for family dinners where everyone can enjoy it.
Versatile: The recipe offers suggestions for variations like adding ranch powder or parmesan, showing that you can easily customize the dish to suit your taste preferences.
Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and frozen for up to three months, providing a convenient and quick meal option for busy days.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a party, a casual get-together, or just want to enjoy a comforting meal, this Ritz Cracker Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that brings people together with its enticing aroma and delicious taste.

Ingredients for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

1-1/4 pounds chicken breasts, thinly sliced and boneless.
1/2 cup butter, cut into small pieces.
1 teaspoon salt.
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (roughly 30), finely crushed.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
2 large eggs, whisked.
1 teaspoon black pepper.

Pro Tips for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Ritz Cracker Chicken turns out perfectly every time, remember to pound the chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking. Crushing the Ritz crackers finely will give you a delightful, crunchy crust. Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of baking to achieve that beautiful golden color, as the butter in the coating plays a crucial role in the dish’s flavor.

For a complete meal, pair this chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and drizzle the buttery pan sauce over the top. Consider adding roasted green beans or a lemony spaghetti as side dishes, and a fresh salad to round out the meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months; simply reheat at 350°F to restore the crunchiness. Feel free to get creative with variations like adding ranch powder or parmesan, or substituting eggs with mayonnaise for dipping.

How to Make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 2: Make Coating

Combine cracker crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

Pat the chicken dry, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it thoroughly with the cracker mixture.

Step 4: Arrange

Arrange the chicken in a 9×13 dish and distribute the butter evenly among the pieces.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the dish hot and optionally drizzle melted butter on top.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Ritz Cracker Chicken, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay good for about three days. When reheating, bake the chicken at 350°F to help bring back the crispy texture of the Ritz cracker coating. If you have leftovers but won’t be consuming them within a few days, you can also freeze the chicken. Wrap the pieces well and store them in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy the frozen chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

The key to preserving the delicious flavors and textures of this dish lies in proper storage techniques. By keeping the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, you can enjoy it at a later time without compromising its taste and quality. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the leftovers for a quick meal or save some for future occasions, following these storage tips will ensure that your Ritz Cracker Chicken remains a delightful and satisfying dish whenever you choose to enjoy it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the flavor profile of this Ritz Cracker Chicken, you could try using different types of crackers such as buttery club crackers or cheesy crackers like Cheez-Its. These variations can add a unique twist to the dish while still providing a crunchy coating for the chicken.

For a healthier alternative, you could consider using whole wheat crackers or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute for the Ritz crackers. This swap can reduce the overall butter content in the dish while still maintaining a crispy texture. Additionally, incorporating herbs and spices like thyme, paprika, or rosemary into the crumb mixture can enhance the flavor profile of the chicken.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. You can also make it dairy-free by using a plant-based butter alternative and ensuring all ingredients, including seasonings, are free from dairy products. These simple substitutions allow you to customize the dish to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try cutting the Ritz Cracker Chicken into bite-sized pieces after cooking and serve them as appetizer skewers at your next gathering. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce like honey mustard or sriracha mayo for an extra kick. The crispy coating and juicy chicken inside make for a perfect finger food that will have your guests coming back for more.

Another fun idea is to create a Ritz Cracker Chicken sandwich by layering the chicken between two slices of buttered and toasted brioche buns. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles, and a drizzle of ranch dressing or BBQ sauce for a delicious twist on a classic chicken sandwich. Serve with a side of sweet potato fries or coleslaw for a satisfying meal that will surely become a new family favorite.

FAQs for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

Can I use a different type of cracker for the coating?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of crackers for the coating, but keep in mind that the buttery and crunchy texture of Ritz crackers is what sets this recipe apart.

Can I substitute chicken breasts with another cut of chicken?

While chicken breasts are commonly used in this recipe, you can try using chicken tenders or chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut of chicken you choose.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs as a substitute for the Ritz crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this Ritz Cracker Chicken in advance by coating the chicken and refrigerating it until you are ready to bake. This can be a convenient option for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Effortless Ritz Cracker Chicken is truly a game-changer when it comes to a quick and delicious dinner option that the whole family will love. The simplicity of this recipe coupled with the incredible crunch and flavor of the Ritz cracker coating makes it a standout dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

So, the next time you’re in need of a comforting and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste, remember to whip up a batch of this Effortless Ritz Cracker Chicken. Whether enjoyed with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the faces of all who gather around your table. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of this irresistible chicken dish!

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

“Crisp and juicy Ritz Cracker Chicken—buttery, crunchy coating with tender chicken inside, a family-favorite dinner that’s easy and irresistible.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 chicken breasts)

Ingredients

1-1/4 pounds chicken breasts, thinly sliced and boneless.
1/2 cup butter, cut into small pieces.
1 teaspoon salt.
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (roughly 30), finely crushed.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
2 large eggs, whisked.
1 teaspoon black pepper.

Instructions

Prep Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Make Coating: Combine cracker crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken dry, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it thoroughly with the cracker mixture.
Arrange: Arrange the chicken in a 9×13 dish and distribute the butter evenly among the pieces.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear.
Serve: Serve the dish hot and optionally drizzle melted butter on top.