If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crunchy, cheesy goodness with tender, juicy chicken, then this Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. The golden crust made from crushed Ritz crackers mixed with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a flavorful, irresistible coating that bakes up beautifully crisp, while the sour cream keeps the chicken moist and tender. It’s comfort food elevated with a delightful texture and a burst of cheesy flavor in every bite, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create magic on your plate. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, crunch, and richness that make this dish so memorable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the crispy coating.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 24 crackers): Adds that signature buttery, flaky crunch everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and gooey, it melts into the crust providing a savory punch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty depth that balances the cheddar’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky hue and mild peppery kick to the crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the spices.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt: Helps the coating stick while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Drizzled on top for extra richness and crispiness when baking.
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and set the stage for your beautiful golden chicken to bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the flavor-packed, crispy exterior that will give the chicken its irresistible texture and taste.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl, spread out your sour cream or Greek yogurt. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly in the sour cream, then press it firmly into the Ritz cracker and cheese mixture. Make sure every inch is covered to maximize that signature crispy and cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, then drizzle melted butter over the tops. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through, the crust is a gorgeous golden brown, and you can smell that delightful cheesy aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh, vibrant touch before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley on top brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle fresh herbal note that complements the rich, cheesy crust perfectly. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if you want to introduce a little zesty contrast.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli. A crisp garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and serve it on top of a bed of buttery rice or cauliflower mash. You could also make individual chicken sandwiches using small buns, layering on fresh lettuce and tomato for an elevated lunch option that still shows off the crispy cheesy coating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard not to gobble this up right away), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days while maintaining most of that delicious crispy coating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. After baking and cooling completely, wrap each chicken breast tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that crunchy cheesy coating, as it tends to get soggy otherwise.
FAQs
Can I use other types of crackers instead of Ritz?
Absolutely! While Ritz crackers provide a unique buttery crunch, you can substitute with saltines, buttery crostini crumbs, or even panko breadcrumbs. Just remember different crackers have varying saltiness and texture, which will slightly change the final result.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a healthier alternative to sour cream. It maintains the moisture and helps the coating stick while contributing a mild tanginess that pairs beautifully with the cheese and spices.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients used, like the cheeses and seasonings, are free from gluten-containing additives.
What’s the best way to get extra crispy chicken?
For an ultra-crispy finish, try broiling the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes of the baking time. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. The broiler helps develop a deeper golden crust with a delightful crunch.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and typically stay even juicier. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check doneness with an instant-read thermometer aiming for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe truly hits all the right notes for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and wonderfully impressive. It’s the kind of recipe that wins over picky eaters and food lovers alike, bringing crispy, cheesy joy to your dinner table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your home as much as I have!
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Crispy Cheesy Baked Chicken with Ritz Crackers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Crispy Cheesy Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of crushed Ritz crackers, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection with a buttery finish, it’s a delightful main course that combines crispiness and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 24 crackers)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Coating Mixture
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Coating Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will form the crispy, cheesy crust on the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken Coating: In another bowl, spread out the sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. This will help the cheese-cracker mixture adhere to the chicken breasts.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the sour cream, coating it thoroughly. Then press it firmly into the cracker-cheese mixture to cover completely, ensuring an even crust on all sides.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle the melted butter over the top to enhance browning and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy on the outside, and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices and improves texture.
- Optional Broil for Extra Crunch: For added crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken breasts for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad.
Notes
- For an extra crunchy crust, broil the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, fresh steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat content slightly while maintaining moisture.
- Make sure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Pound them lightly if needed.
