Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Coating
In a large zip-top bag, place the Ritz crackers and crush them using a rolling pin or your hands until you have fine crumbs. Pour the crumbs into a shallow dish. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the crumbs. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This will act as the binding agent to help the cracker coating stick to the chicken.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then press the chicken into the Ritz cracker mixture, ensuring that all sides are coated evenly. Gently press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure a crispy coating.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the chicken. This step helps create that signature golden, crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Sauce (Optional)
While the chicken is baking, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. This sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, adding a tangy and creamy contrast.
Step 8: Serve
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the crispy chicken with the creamy sauce on the side for dipping, or drizzle the sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken:
This recipe is a true family favorite thanks to its satisfying crunch and flavorful seasoning. The Ritz crackers, already buttery on their own, become even more irresistible when combined with Parmesan cheese and spices. The crispy coating contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender chicken inside, making each bite a delightful experience.
Tips for the Best Ritz Cracker Chicken:
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper for heat, or even ranch seasoning to the cracker coating for extra flavor.
- Try Different Proteins: This method works well with other proteins like pork chops or even fish fillets. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Double the Crust: If you love an extra-thick crust, dip the chicken into the egg mixture and cracker crumbs twice for a double coating.
Serving Suggestions:
This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a special touch, serve it alongside garlic butter green beans or buttery dinner rolls.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to make a cozy dinner at home, this Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is the way to go. With its crunchy, golden crust and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a go-to dish that everyone at the table will ask for again and again. Add the creamy sauce for a burst of flavor that will take this dish to the next level. Enjoy this delightful combination of textures and flavors in one easy-to-make meal!