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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by setting the temperature to 350°F and lightly coating a rectangular baking dish with non-stick spray.
- 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.
- Submerge each chicken breast into melted butter, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Gently press the butter-coated chicken into the seasoned cracker mixture, rotating to create a uniform, crispy exterior that adheres completely.
- Carefully transfer the breaded chicken to the prepared baking dish, positioning pieces without overcrowding.
- Delicately drizzle any remaining melted butter over the chicken, which will enhance golden browning and moisture.
- 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.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to redistribute internal juices.
- 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