Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, look no further than Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a crunchy Ritz cracker coating and a creamy sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, to taste
• Garlic pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to give your chicken a crispy finish.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
3. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup milk. In another shallow dish, place the crushed Ritz crackers, and in a third dish, have the shredded cheddar cheese ready.
4. Season and Coat the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste. Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Press the shredded cheese onto the chicken, then coat it thoroughly with the crushed Ritz crackers.
5. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
6. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is baking, make the sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup milk. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and serve it hot. Pour the creamy sauce over the top of the chicken and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken hot from the oven. The coating will be at its crispiest and the sauce will be perfectly creamy.
2. Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans. The rich sauce complements starchy and vegetable sides beautifully.
3. Garnish Options: Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for added visual appeal and flavor.
4. Serving Sauce: Drizzle the creamy sauce over the chicken just before serving. For a more interactive meal, serve the sauce on the side so everyone can add as much or as little as they like.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation inside the container.
2. Freezing: To freeze, first cool the chicken completely. Then, place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen solid, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave, but note that the coating may become less crispy.
4. Sauce Storage: Store the leftover sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
5. Reheating Frozen Chicken: To reheat frozen chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Ensure the chicken is fully heated through before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken remains delicious and convenient for future meals.

Variations:

1. Spicy Ritz Cracker Chicken
For a kick of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the crushed Ritz crackers. You can also mix some hot sauce into the egg and milk mixture to give the chicken an extra layer of spiciness.

2. Herbed Ritz Cracker Chicken
Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning into the Ritz cracker coating for a burst of flavor. You can mix the herbs directly into the crushed crackers to infuse the chicken with aromatic notes.

3. Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken
Double the cheese for an extra cheesy version! Mix additional shredded cheddar or other favorite cheeses into the Ritz cracker coating. For an even richer taste, add a layer of cheese between the chicken and the cracker coating.

4. Garlic Parmesan Ritz Cracker Chicken
Combine grated Parmesan cheese with the crushed Ritz crackers for a savory, cheesy crust. Add garlic powder or minced garlic to the coating for a garlic-infused flavor that complements the Parmesan.

5. Lemon Herb Ritz Cracker Chicken
Add a fresh twist by incorporating lemon zest and dried herbs like basil or oregano into the Ritz cracker mixture. This adds a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the crispy coating.

6. Barbecue Ritz Cracker Chicken
Brush the chicken breasts with barbecue sauce before coating them with the Ritz crackers. This adds a tangy, smoky flavor to the dish. You can also mix a little barbecue seasoning into the cracker crumbs for extra flavor.

7. Bacon Ritz Cracker Chicken
For a smoky, savory twist, crumble cooked bacon into the Ritz cracker mixture. The bacon bits add a delightful crunch and flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

8. Southwest Ritz Cracker Chicken
Add a Southwest flair by mixing chili powder, cumin, and paprika into the Ritz cracker coating. Top the chicken with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro after baking for a touch of freshness.

9. Ranch Ritz Cracker Chicken
Mix ranch seasoning into the crushed Ritz crackers for a classic ranch flavor. You can also add a drizzle of ranch dressing on top of the chicken before baking for extra flavor.

10. Mustard Herb Ritz Cracker Chicken
For a tangy and flavorful variation, spread a thin layer of Dijon or yellow mustard on the chicken breasts before coating them with the Ritz crackers. Add a mix of dried herbs to the cracker crumbs for added depth of flavor.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your perfect flavor combination and make your Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken even more enjoyable!

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to a day in advance. Coat the chicken, place it on a baking sheet, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of cracker?
   Absolutely. While Ritz crackers provide a unique flavor, you can use other types of crackers such as saltines or buttery crackers. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free crackers for the coating. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as the cream of chicken soup, are also gluten-free if necessary.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Let it cool completely, then freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
6. How can I make the chicken spicier?
   Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the Ritz cracker coating for a spicy kick. You can also mix some chili powder or paprika into the coating for additional heat.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or provolone. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the other flavors.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it up.