Ritz Cracker Chicken
If you’re looking for a deliciously easy and satisfying dish, look no further than Ritz Cracker Chicken. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy Ritz cracker crust, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika for extra flavor
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. This is based on the use of standard ingredients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
3. In a bowl, crush the Ritz crackers until fine.
4. Mix the crushed crackers with grated Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl.
5. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
6. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated.
7. Roll the egg-coated chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
9. Drizzle melted butter over the tops of the chicken for added flavor.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, gluten-free crackers can be used for a gluten-free version, and you can replace Parmesan with any cheese of your choice.
Serving and Pairings
Ritz Cracker Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This dish can be frozen; however, for best quality, consume within 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven properly.
- Overcrowding the baking dish, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the egg wash, which helps the cracker coating adhere.
- Using stale crackers can affect flavor and texture.
- Not seasoning the chicken well enough.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cracker mix for extra flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the cracker mix.
FAQs
Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, you can use other cracker varieties, such as saltines or breadcrumbs, but the texture and flavor may vary.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Ritz Cracker Chicken stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals.
Can I bake this dish in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry the chicken for a crispier texture. Cook at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
What sides go well with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for balance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free alternatives to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of crackers with juicy chicken, making it a winner for any occasion. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite sides and savor the deliciousness!
Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- Crush the Ritz crackers until fine and mix with Parmesan cheese.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Dip each chicken breast in beaten eggs, ensuring it's well-coated.
- Roll the chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing gently.
- Place the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.