Craving a crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make chicken dinner? Look no further than Ritz Cracker Chicken! This surprisingly simple recipe uses crushed Ritz crackers to create a delicious and satisfyingly crunchy coating. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, Ritz Cracker Chicken is a guaranteed winner. Forget complicated breading procedures – this recipe streamlines the process without sacrificing any flavor. Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with an irresistible crispy crust that the whole family will love!
Ingredients and Preparation
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can also use chicken thighs.
- Ritz crackers: The star of the show! You’ll need about one sleeve, finely crushed.
- Butter: Melted butter helps the cracker crumbs adhere and adds richness.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper are the basics, but feel free to customize!
- Eggs (optional): For extra adhesion, dip the chicken in a beaten egg before coating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the chicken: If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch) for even cooking. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Crush the Ritz crackers: Place the Ritz crackers in a resealable bag and crush them finely using a rolling pin or food processor.
- Combine seasonings: In a shallow dish, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Melt the butter: Melt the butter in a separate shallow dish.
- Coat the chicken: If using eggs, dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg. Then, dredge the chicken in the Ritz cracker mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the crumbs adhere.
- Bake: Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the chicken. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crackers are golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken
Baking vs. Air Frying:
- Baking: Offers a more even cooking experience and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Air Frying: A faster option for achieving extra crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the Ritz cracker mixture for a cheesy flavor.
- Herbs: Mix in dried herbs like Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary for added depth.
- Spice: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce will add a kick.
- Lemon zest: Lemon zest brightens the dish and complements the buttery flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair Ritz Cracker Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce.
- Cut the chicken into strips and serve it over a bed of greens for a quick and easy salad.
Healthier Alternatives
Reducing the Fat Content
- Use cooking spray instead of melted butter to adhere the cracker crumbs.
- Use a leaner cut of chicken, like chicken tenderloins.
- Opt for low-sodium Ritz crackers to reduce sodium intake.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Store leftover Ritz cracker chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the crust is crispy, about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a crispier result.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a satisfying chicken dinner. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy Ritz cracker coating adds a delightful crunch and flavor that will please even the pickiest eaters. Experiment with different seasonings and variations to create your own signature Ritz Cracker Chicken recipe. So, ditch the boring chicken recipes and give this one a try – you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy!
