Quick & Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe That Kids Adore

Whipping up a delectable crispy ritz cracker chicken recipe promises an adventure in flavor and texture that will leave you craving more.

Crushed crackers create a golden, crunchy coating that seals in juicy meat perfectly.

Simple ingredients transform an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary.

Weeknight meals become special when you learn this foolproof technique.

Home cooks adore how quickly this dish comes together with minimal effort.

Kids and adults alike will devour every crispy, savory bite.

You won’t believe how easy it is to make restaurant-quality chicken right in your own kitchen.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Enjoyment Tips

• Savory Sip Selection: Crisp Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the buttery, crispy chicken, cutting through the richness while complementing the garlic and Parmesan notes.
• Fresh Veggie Boost: Roasted asparagus or green beans add a vibrant, light contrast to the crispy chicken, bringing fresh nutrients and color to the plate.
• Creamy Comfort Companion: Smooth mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice create a comforting side that absorbs the delicious butter and cracker crumb flavors.
• Zesty Flavor Enhancer: Quick cucumber dill salad provides a cool, tangy counterpoint to the warm, crunchy chicken, balancing the overall meal with a refreshing touch.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Crunchy Takes

• Gluten-Free Cracker Chicken: Replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free rice crackers or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Chicken Crust: Swap Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese. Reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining crispy texture and flavor.
• Herb-Infused Chicken Variation: Add dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano to the cracker mixture for an aromatic herb-packed version. Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like basil or chives for extra freshness.
• Spicy Kick Chicken: Boost heat by adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder to the cracker coating. Include a dash of hot sauce in the melted butter for an extra spicy profile.

FAQs

• Why use Ritz crackers for the coating?

Ritz crackers provide a buttery, crispy texture that creates a more flavorful and crunchy exterior compared to traditional breadcrumbs, adding richness and a golden-brown finish to the chicken.

• Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the chicken in the Ritz cracker mixture and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop and makes dinner prep faster.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy without overcooking.

• Is this recipe good for people who don't like complex seasonings?

Absolutely! The simple combination of Ritz crackers, Parmesan, garlic powder, and paprika creates a delicious flavor that’s not overwhelming, making it perfect for picky eaters or those who prefer mild seasonings.

Ritz-Crusted Chicken That’s Crispy and Comforting

• Effortless Preparation: Whip up this chicken dish with minimal cooking skills, using basic ingredients and simple steps that anyone can master.
• Crowd-Pleasing Crunch: Enjoy the irresistible texture of crispy Ritz cracker coating that delivers a satisfying crackle with every bite, making it a guaranteed family favorite.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, this recipe adapts easily to different occasions and always impresses hungry guests.
• Quick Comfort Food: Savor a homemade meal that comes together fast, providing a delicious solution for busy families craving a tasty and comforting chicken dish.

Ritz Cracker Chicken: Comfort Dish Ingredient List

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base for the crispy dish.
• Ritz Crackers: Provides a crunchy and flavorful coating.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, savory depth to the cracker mixture.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt: Classic blend of spices for enhanced flavor.

• Butter, Melted: Creates a golden crust and helps cracker mixture stick to chicken.
• Parsley, Freshly Chopped: Fresh herb for garnish and bright finishing touch.

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Heat the oven to 350°F and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Coating

• Crushed Ritz crackers
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Salt

Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Butter the Chicken

Melt butter in a separate bowl. Dunk each chicken breast into the melted butter, making sure every inch is coated with the golden, rich liquid.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Roll the buttered chicken breasts in the cracker mixture, pressing firmly to help the coating adhere. Ensure the entire surface is covered with the crispy mixture.

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish

Transfer the coated chicken to the prepared baking dish. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top for extra golden crispiness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken turns a beautiful golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and wonderfully crispy.

Chicken Tips for Crispy Ritz Cracker Crusts

• Choose High-Quality Crackers: Select fresh, crisp Ritz crackers for the best crunch and flavor in your coating.
• Crush Crackers Carefully: Crush crackers into fine, even crumbs to create a uniform, crispy exterior on the chicken.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Place chicken on a wire rack in the baking dish to allow air circulation and maintain crispiness underneath.
• Butter Matters: Use melted butter at room temperature for even coating and better adhesion of the cracker mixture to the chicken.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.

Preserve Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Properly

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen chicken maintains quality for up to 3 months.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to prevent overcooking and maintain crispiness.

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Elevate weeknight dinners with this crispy ritz cracker chicken recipe that delivers crunchy, golden perfection. Crushed crackers create an irresistible coating that locks in juicy chicken flavor while promising a delightful crunch you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1.5 cups (375 ml) Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve)
• 0.5 cup (120 ml) grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cup (60 ml) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by setting the temperature to 350°F and lightly coating a rectangular baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Combine the pulverized Ritz crackers with grated Parmesan, aromatic garlic powder, vibrant paprika, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt in a wide mixing bowl.
3. Submerge each chicken breast into melted butter, ensuring complete and even coverage.
4. Gently press the butter-coated chicken into the seasoned cracker mixture, rotating to create a uniform, crispy exterior that adheres completely.
5. Carefully transfer the breaded chicken to the prepared baking dish, positioning pieces without overcrowding.
6. Delicately drizzle any remaining melted butter over the chicken, which will enhance golden browning and moisture.
7. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the chicken develops a rich, amber crust and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to redistribute internal juices.
9. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor, then serve immediately while maintaining optimal crispiness.

Notes

• Select buttery crackers with consistent texture to guarantee even coating and maximum crispiness.
• Crush Ritz crackers gently to maintain some larger crumbs, creating a more interesting and textured crust.
• Use room temperature chicken breasts for more uniform cooking and better butter absorption.
• Consider gluten-free alternatives like gluten-free crackers or almond flour for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg