Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner—Ritz Cracker Chicken! This dish is not just simple; it’s downright delightful! Picture juicy chicken breasts coated in a buttery, crunchy layer of Ritz crackers, seasoned just right. It’s so easy to whip up, and I love how it always gets rave reviews from my family. You can have it on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
How to Prepare Ritz Cracker Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making Ritz Cracker Chicken! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get your kitchen all cozy and ready for some deliciousness!
Next, grab a medium-sized bowl and mix together your crushed Ritz crackers with the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This mix is where the flavor party begins, so give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
Now, it’s dipping time! Take each chicken breast and dip it into the melted butter, making sure it’s well-coated. This buttery goodness is what helps the cracker mixture stick beautifully to the chicken. Then, roll it in the cracker mixture until it’s completely covered. It’s okay if some crumbs fall off; just pack them on for that perfect crunch!
Once all your chicken breasts are coated, place them in a baking dish, making sure they’re not crowded. Pop them in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and it smells heavenly!
And that’s it! You’ve just created a dish that’s as easy as it is tasty. Get ready for some serious compliments at the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make—ready in under an hour!
- Easy cleanup—just one baking dish to wash!
- Kid-friendly—my kids can’t get enough of that crunchy coating!
- Flavorful and satisfying—the perfect blend of buttery and savory!
- Versatile—great for weeknight dinners, parties, or potlucks!
- Gluten-free option—just make sure to use gluten-free Ritz crackers!
- Simple ingredients—everything you likely have on hand!
- Perfectly juicy chicken—no dry meat here!
Tips for Success
To make your Ritz Cracker Chicken absolutely perfect every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!
- Crush those crackers finely: The finer your Ritz cracker crumbs, the better they’ll stick to the chicken and create that irresistible crunchy coating. I like to put them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin—super easy and fun!
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices in the cracker mixture! A little cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a different flair can elevate this dish even more. Experiment and find your perfect blend!
- Check for doneness: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This way, you’ll avoid any dry chicken disasters!
- Let it rest: After baking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before digging in. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Make it a meal: Consider adding veggies on the side or even roasting some alongside the chicken in the same dish. It saves time and makes for a colorful, complete dinner!
- Leftover magic: If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! They make for fantastic sandwiches or salads the next day. Just reheat in the oven to keep that crunch!
With these tips, you’ll be a Ritz Cracker Chicken pro in no time. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! While this Ritz Cracker Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s also helpful to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (that’s one chicken breast, in case you were wondering):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 24g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But rest assured, you’re getting a tasty meal packed with protein! Enjoy your cooking, and remember that balance is key in every delicious bite!
FAQ About Ritz Cracker Chicken
Got questions about making this delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my tried-and-true answers.
Can I use other types of crackers?
Absolutely! While Ritz crackers are my go-to for that buttery flavor, you can experiment with other crackers like butter or saltines. Just make sure they’re finely crushed for the best coating!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken breasts in the cracker mixture, place them in the baking dish, and cover them with plastic wrap. Just pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake—perfect for busy evenings!
What should I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
Oh, the options are endless! I love serving it with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with rice or pasta for a heartier meal—whatever floats your boat!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, pop them back in the oven to keep that crispiness intact!
Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Chicken?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Hopefully, these FAQs help clarify any doubts you might have. Enjoy making your Ritz Cracker Chicken, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering Ritz Cracker Chicken ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a full, satisfying meal! Trust me, the right sides can elevate this dish even more!
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition to your plate! Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven while your chicken bakes.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic pairing! The richness of the potatoes complements the crunchy chicken perfectly. Don’t forget to add a hint of garlic for extra flavor!
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. It’s a great way to balance the meal and add some crunch!
- Macaroni and Cheese: For a cozy comfort food vibe, serve up some creamy mac and cheese! The cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully with the crunchy texture of the chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs or toasted almonds is a lovely side that soaks up any juices from the chicken, making each bite even more delightful.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice is not only elegant but also adds a lovely pop of color to your plate. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Each option brings its own flair to the table, making your Ritz Cracker Chicken dinner a hit every time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to properly store your delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken so you can enjoy those leftovers without losing any of that incredible flavor! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftover chicken cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Now, if you’re looking to keep it for a bit longer, you can freeze your Ritz Cracker Chicken! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend popping it back in the oven to keep that fabulous crunch! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain that crispy coating that makes this dish so special. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a microwave, but just know that it might lose some of its crunch. If you go that route, heat it on medium power for about 1–2 minutes or until warm.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your Ritz Cracker Chicken! Enjoy!
Print
Ritz Cracker Chicken: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious chicken dish coated in crushed Ritz crackers.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dip each chicken breast in melted butter, then coat with the cracker mixture.
- Place coated chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- Serve with your favorite side dishes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ritz cracker chicken
