Ritz Cracker Chicken

If you’re like me, finding a recipe that’s quick, easy, and a guaranteed hit with the family feels like striking gold. That’s exactly what this Ritz Cracker Chicken is—a golden, crunchy, cheesy delight that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious.

I discovered this gem of a dish while experimenting with ways to jazz up plain chicken breasts, and let me tell you, the crispy crust and creamy sauce make it irresistible. Let’s dive into the first steps of creating this comfort-food masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish checks all the boxes:

• Easy Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Family-Approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love the cheesy, crunchy goodness.
• Versatile: Pairs well with anything from mashed potatoes to a fresh green salad.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed (I recommend the Roasted Vegetable flavor!)
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Garlic pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 10 oz can of cream of chicken soup
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking pan and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your chicken doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

This is where the magic begins! You’ll need three shallow dishes:

1. Dish 1: Whisk together the milk and egg. This mixture helps the toppings stick to the chicken.
2. Dish 2: Pour in the crushed Ritz crackers. Pro tip: Keep the texture a bit coarse for extra crunch.
3. Dish 3: Add the shredded cheddar cheese.

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Step 3: Season and Bread the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper. Then, dip each piece into the milk and egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, press a layer of shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken. This step might get a little messy, but it’s worth it! Finally, coat the chicken in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.

Step 4: Ready for the Oven

Place your breaded chicken breasts onto the prepared baking pan, making sure they aren’t crowded. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Perfecting Your Ritz Cracker Chicken and Creamy Sauce

By now, your kitchen should smell amazing with the golden, cheesy crust of the Ritz Cracker Chicken baking away. But every great dish deserves a great sauce, and this creamy topping takes the flavor to the next level. Here’s how to make the sauce and bring it all together with some pro tips to wow your dinner crowd!

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

While the chicken is baking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the sauce. This step is incredibly easy, but it makes a world of difference when it comes to flavor and texture.

1. Melt the Butter: Place a small saucepan over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Combine Ingredients: Once the butter is melted, stir in the can of cream of chicken soup, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, and ¼ cup of milk.
3. Whisk Until Smooth: Gently whisk the mixture until it’s smooth, creamy, and heated through. Keep the heat on medium to avoid burning or curdling.

Pro Tip: Elevate the Sauce with Customizations

Want to make the sauce even more exciting? Here are a few simple tweaks:

• Add Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill can give the sauce a fresh, herby kick.
• Kick of Spice: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a subtle heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Add a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Serve Your Ritz Cracker Chicken

Once the chicken is baked to golden perfection, it’s time to assemble the plate. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

1. Plate the Chicken: Place each crispy chicken breast onto a plate or serving dish.
2. Top with Sauce: Generously pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, letting it cascade down the sides.
3. Add Sides: Pair with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or even a crisp green salad.

Tips for Serving Like a Pro

• Garnish Matters: Sprinkle a little parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color.
• Balance the Plate: Add a mix of textures and colors to make your meal visually appealing. Think creamy mashed potatoes and bright green broccoli.
• Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so plan to serve immediately after the sauce is ready.

Variations to Try

Looking to switch things up? This recipe is incredibly versatile, so here are a few fun variations to experiment with:

1. Spicy Cheddar Chicken: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
2. Parmesan Herb Chicken: Swap out the cheddar for grated Parmesan and add Italian herbs to the Ritz cracker coating.
3. Honey Mustard Sauce: Instead of the creamy chicken sauce, try drizzling your chicken with a homemade honey mustard sauce for a tangy alternative.

FAQs and Final Thoughts on Ritz Cracker Chicken

With your Ritz Cracker Chicken ready to serve and the creamy sauce perfectly poured, you’ve created a meal that’s destined to become a family favorite. Before you dig in, let’s address some common questions about the recipe, along with a few final tips to ensure your success every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cracker for the coating?
Absolutely! While Ritz crackers provide a buttery crunch that’s hard to beat, you can substitute them with other options like panko breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, or even pretzels for a fun twist.

2. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup for the sauce?
No problem! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as an alternative. If you prefer to make a homemade version, whisk together 1 cup of chicken broth with ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of flour over medium heat until thickened.

3. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps lock in the juices.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated gently when needed.

5. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, the breaded and baked chicken freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness. The sauce, however, is best made fresh.

6. What sides pair best with this dish?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, buttered noodles, or a crisp green salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving it with creamy macaroni and cheese or garlic bread.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free crackers and ensure the cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion: Ready to Make Your New Favorite Meal?

Ritz Cracker Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its buttery, cheesy crust and luscious sauce, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or serving it to impress guests, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone smiling.

Ritz Cracker Chicken

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• Author: Sophia
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Description

This Ritz Cracker Chicken is a family favorite with juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy cracker and cheese crust. Paired with a creamy sauce, it’s a comforting and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended)
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Garlic pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 10 oz can cream of chicken soup
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter

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Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2️⃣ Prepare the Breading Station:

In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and ¼ cup milk.

Place the crushed Ritz crackers in another shallow dish and the shredded cheddar cheese in a third.

3️⃣ Season the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste.

4️⃣ Bread the Chicken:

Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture.

Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken, ensuring an even layer.

Coat the chicken in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly to adhere.

5️⃣ Bake the Chicken:

Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6️⃣ Make the Sauce:

While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ¼ cup milk. Whisk until smooth and heated through.

7️⃣ Serve:

Serve the baked chicken hot with the creamy sauce poured over the top.

Notes

• For extra flavor, try using Ritz crackers in other flavors like Garlic Butter or Original.
• Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture for a hint of spice.
• Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4