There’s a certain magic that happens when crunchy Ritz crackers meet tender chicken in a creamy, savory embrace. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug, promising that first bite will be nothing short of delightful. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance while your belly rumbles in agreement.
I remember the first time I made Ritz Cracker Chicken for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights where I needed something quick yet satisfying. Little did I know, this dish would become an instant favorite, leaving my kids begging for seconds and my husband eyeing the leftovers like a hawk. Perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress and entertain.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ritz Cracker Chicken is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, with a delightful crunch from the Ritz crackers
- Visually appealing with its golden crust, this dish will steal the spotlight on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with various sides or sauces!
My sister-in-law once exclaimed this was “better than anything at a restaurant,” as she devoured her portion with pure joy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will do nicely; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
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Ritz Crackers: The star of the show! Crush them finely for that signature crunchy topping.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for added richness without overwhelming saltiness; it enhances flavor beautifully.
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Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor; feel free to use low-fat options if desired.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that elevates the entire dish with its aromatic presence.
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Paprika: Adds a pop of color and a hint of smokiness; I prefer smoked paprika for depth.
For the Sauce:
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Sour Cream: Use full-fat sour cream for creaminess; Greek yogurt is also a great substitute for tanginess.
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Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these basic seasonings; they bring everything together perfectly!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare Your Kitchen: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Crush Those Crackers!: In a plastic bag or bowl, crush the Ritz crackers until they resemble fine crumbs. Aim for an even texture so every bite has that satisfying crunch.
Mix Up the Creamy Goodness: In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything blends smoothly; it should resemble creamy heaven!
Coat That Chicken!: Dip each chicken breast into the creamy mixture until well-coated. Then roll each piece in the crushed Ritz crackers until fully covered—because who doesn’t love extra crunch?
Bake Until Golden Perfection!: Place the coated chicken in your prepared baking dish and drizzle melted butter on top. Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through—around 165°F (74°C) internal temperature is your goal.
Serve and Enjoy!: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to seal in those delightful juices. Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal!
Now you’re ready to dig into this crispy delight! Remember to savor each bite—after all, it’s not just dinner; it’s an experience!
You Must Know
- Ritz Cracker Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that combines savory and crunchy elements
- The buttery Ritz crackers create a perfect crust, while the chicken remains juicy inside
- This dish is not just delicious; it’s also simple to prepare and a hit at family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Coat the chicken in a mixture of mayonnaise and seasonings, then roll it in crushed Ritz crackers for that perfect crunch. Bake until golden brown and cooked through, about 30-35 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even fish! Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate flavors, while a sprinkle of cheese on top gives an extra cheesy twist that’s hard to resist.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through to maintain that delightful crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly crispy coating, ensure your Ritz crackers are finely crushed but not powdered
- Marinate the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor
- When baking, use a wire rack on your baking sheet for even cooking and crispiness
I remember the first time I served Ritz Cracker Chicken at a family gathering; my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it. She even tried sneaking leftovers home!
FAQ
Can I use other types of crackers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any buttery cracker can work well, but Ritz offers unique flavor and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption, ensuring it’s deliciously juicy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything a day before and bake right before serving for fresh crunchiness.
Ritz Cracker Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ritz Cracker Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, buttery Ritz cracker topping. This comforting recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy interior and golden crust, each bite promises an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Crush Ritz crackers in a plastic bag or bowl until fine crumbs form.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Coat each chicken breast in the creamy mixture, then roll in crushed Ritz crackers to fully cover.
- Place coated chicken in the baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (170g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the creamy mixture for at least one hour before baking. Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or fish, and sprinkle cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy twist.