If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful, look no further than Ritz Cracker Chicken. This comforting meal features tender chicken coated in a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker crust, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe will impress with its delightful texture and taste. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 400 calories, 25g protein, 30g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, melt the butter.
- Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll the buttered chicken in the cracker mixture until well coated.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle any remaining butter over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute crushed cornflakes for Ritz crackers for a gluten-free option. Additionally, using different cheeses like cheddar can add a unique flavor twist to the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Ritz Cracker Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This dish is not recommended for freezing as it may lose its crispy texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can result in dryness, so use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Not crushing the crackers finely enough may lead to uneven coating.
- Skipping the butter will result in a less flavorful crust.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can affect cooking time.
- Not allowing the chicken to rest may cause juices to escape when cutting.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different seasonings for varied tastes.
- Pair with seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for a perfect crust.
FAQs
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken can be used; just be aware it may be greasier and require longer cooking time.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Ritz Cracker Chicken is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for quick meals.
Can I bake it in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry Ritz Cracker Chicken at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes for a crispy texture.
What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
It pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F will help ensure the chicken remains juicy.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken is an easy and delicious way to elevate your dinner table. With its crispy crust and tender meat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with your choice of sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, melt the butter.
- Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll the buttered chicken in the cracker mixture until well coated.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle any remaining butter over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
