Ritz Cracker Chicken is a comforting and crunchy dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Coated in a flavorful mix of crushed Ritz crackers, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, this chicken bakes to golden perfection. Paired with a creamy sauce, it’s a perfect family meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Sauce:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ⅛ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp milk
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with salt, pepper, and dried parsley.
- In separate dishes, place the sour cream and grated cheddar cheese.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast half into the sour cream, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Next, dip the chicken into the grated cheese, followed by the Ritz cracker mixture. Coat thoroughly with the crackers.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Place the coated chicken in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50-55 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- While the chicken is baking, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, butter, and milk in a small saucepan.
- Cook the sauce over medium-high heat, stirring until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the chicken is finished baking, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses for a new flavor twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture for a bit of heat.
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the cracker mixture for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- To Store: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with any other buttery cracker or even panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. - Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted. - How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safely cooked. - Can I use a different sauce?
Yes, you can serve the chicken with a homemade gravy or a cheese sauce for a different flavor profile. - Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, freeze the coated but uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. - What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad make great side dishes to pair with this chicken. - Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to lighten up the recipe. - How can I keep the chicken from drying out?
Covering the chicken with foil while baking helps retain moisture. Additionally, make sure not to overcook the chicken.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken is a family-friendly recipe that combines crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors into one satisfying dish. With minimal prep and a quick bake time, this meal is perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether served with a creamy sauce or your favorite sides, this chicken recipe will quickly become a household favorite!