Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

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Chicken dinners are always a family favorite, but when I want something that’s not just delicious but also wildly satisfying, I make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken. The buttery crunch on the outside and the juicy tenderness of the chicken inside make this one of my go-to recipes whenever I’m craving comfort food with a little flair.

The first time I made this dish, I remember the smell that filled the kitchen as it baked. It brought everyone to the table before I even had a chance to call them. Ritz crackers have a nostalgic quality, and crushing them into crumbs for the coating adds a buttery richness you just can’t get with plain breadcrumbs. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar and indulgent at the same time.

What I love most is how simple it is. I can throw this together with pantry staples and have it in the oven in minutes. Yet every time I serve it, people think it took way more effort than it did. That’s the kind of magic I like in a recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

This recipe checks all the boxes for a weeknight winner. It has a golden, crunchy coating that locks in moisture, making the chicken tender and flavorful. The ingredients are easy to find, and you probably already have most of them on hand. It’s family-friendly, kid-approved, and versatile enough to serve with nearly any side dish. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is always a bonus in my book.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts are the star of this dish, and their mild flavor pairs perfectly with the buttery crunch of the Ritz coating. I usually go for boneless, skinless cuts to keep it easy.

Ritz crackers provide the essential crunch and rich, buttery flavor that gives this recipe its signature crispiness. They break down beautifully and coat the chicken evenly.

Eggs are needed to help the cracker crumbs stick to the chicken. They act as a glue between the meat and the crust.

Garlic powder and onion powder bring a gentle depth of flavor that enhances the savoriness of the chicken without overwhelming the buttery notes.

Salt and pepper are simple but necessary. They season the chicken before coating to ensure the flavor shines through in every bite.

Butter adds another layer of richness. I pour it over the chicken before baking to give the crust that irresistible golden hue.

How to Make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat your chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Crush the Crackers

Place your Ritz crackers into a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin. You want a fine, crumbly texture that will coat the chicken thoroughly.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Beat a few eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each piece of chicken in the egg, making sure it’s fully coated, then press it into the crushed Ritz crackers until the chicken is evenly covered.

Step 4: Arrange and Butter

Place the coated chicken pieces in a baking dish. Drizzle melted butter generously over the top to ensure the crust bakes to golden perfection.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is crisp and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, you can swap them out for buttery round crackers or even crushed cornflakes. They still give a great crunch, though the buttery flavor won’t be quite the same. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers and ensure all other ingredients comply.

To turn up the flavor, you can mix a bit of grated parmesan cheese into the crushed cracker coating. It adds a nutty depth that complements the chicken perfectly. Want a bit of heat? Try adding paprika or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs work just as well. They stay juicy and absorb the flavors beautifully. And for a slightly healthier take, you can bake the chicken on a wire rack so the fat drips away while still keeping that crispy exterior.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is wonderfully versatile. I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For something heartier, pair it with garlic parmesan rice or roasted vegetables.

If you want to make a Southern-style meal, add a side of cheesy ranch potatoes or buttermilk biscuits. It also holds up well with a dipping sauce—think honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy mayo for a kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The coating will lose some of its crispiness, but you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to bring back the crunch.

Avoid microwaving if you can—it softens the crust. If you need to freeze it, wrap the pieces tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until hot and crispy.

FAQs

How do I keep Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken crispy?

Make sure to drizzle the butter evenly over the coating before baking, and avoid covering the chicken while it rests. If possible, bake on a wire rack so heat can circulate.

Can I make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Wait to add the butter until just before baking for best results.

What sides go best with Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken?

Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic parmesan rice, and roasted zucchini all pair beautifully. I also love it with a crisp garden salad.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken?

Definitely. Boneless thighs, chicken tenders, or even drumsticks can be used. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.

How do I make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free buttery crackers and make sure all your seasonings and butter are certified gluten-free.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love how easy and flavorful Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is, you might also enjoy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. It’s a bright, garlicky chicken dish paired with buttery, savory rice that complements the crispy texture beautifully. Another favorite is the Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken Recipe, which is hearty, creamy, and packed with bold flavor. For a fun twist on weeknight chicken, check out Homemade Big Mac Wraps with Secret Sauce.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken to your Pinterest board so you can always come back to it when the craving hits. If you made it and loved it, share it with your friends or family—whether through social media, text, or your next dinner party invite. Recipes this tasty deserve to be passed around!

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