Introduction & First Steps of the Recipe
If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy, and satisfying chicken dish, this Ritz Cracker Chicken is the answer! With a golden, crunchy Ritz cracker coating, topped with melted cheddar cheese, and served with a creamy sauce, this dish is a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
The crispy chicken paired with the rich, creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that you won’t be able to resist. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad, this dish will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Crispy & Cheesy – The Ritz cracker coating gives the chicken a perfectly crunchy texture, while the cheddar cheese adds rich flavor.
✔️ Easy to Make – With only a few steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is quick and foolproof.
✔️ Comfort Food at Its Best – Cheese, crackers, and chicken—it’s everything you love in one dish.
✔️ Perfect for Busy Weeknights – You can get a delicious, homemade dinner on the table in just 45 minutes.
✔️ Kid-Friendly – The crispy chicken and creamy sauce are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
If you’re looking for a comforting and tasty meal that’s easy to make but full of flavor, then this Ritz Cracker Chicken will quickly become your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, but they come together to create a dish that tastes anything but ordinary!
For the Chicken Coating:
🍗 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The lean protein that will become crispy, cheesy perfection.
🍪 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended) – Crunchy and flavorful, the Ritz crackers form the perfect coating.
🥛 ¼ cup milk – Used to help the coating stick and give the chicken a moist texture.
🥚 1 large egg – Helps bind the coating ingredients to the chicken.
🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy layer to the chicken.
🧂 Salt – To season the chicken and coating.
🧄 Garlic pepper – Adds a subtle garlicky, peppery kick.
For the Sauce:
🍲 10 oz. can cream of chicken soup – The base of the creamy sauce that brings everything together.
🥛 ¼ cup milk – Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
🥄 2 tablespoons sour cream – Adds a tangy richness to the sauce.
🧈 2 tablespoons butter – Melts into the sauce for an extra creamy, smooth finish.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to make the sauce even richer, you can add a bit more sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Pan
To start off, let’s get the oven ready to bake this crispy, cheesy chicken!
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Lightly spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick while baking.
💡 Tip: Use a baking rack if you have one! It will allow the heat to circulate around the chicken for an even crispier texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating for the Chicken
This crispy coating is what makes Ritz Cracker Chicken so irresistible. The combination of crushed Ritz crackers and cheddar cheese creates a flavorful, crunchy exterior that’s perfectly complemented by the juicy chicken.
3️⃣ In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and ¼ cup milk.
4️⃣ In a second shallow dish, place the crushed Ritz crackers.
5️⃣ In a third shallow dish, place the shredded cheddar cheese.
6️⃣ Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to taste.
💡 Coating Tip: For extra flavor, you can mix a little garlic powder or paprika into the Ritz crackers!
At this point, we have the oven preheating, the coating set up, and the chicken seasoned and ready to go. Now we’re ready to move on to the next step—coating the chicken and getting it into the oven!
Part 2: Coating, Baking, and Making the Sauce
Now that we’ve prepped our crispy coating and preheated the oven, it’s time to coat the chicken, bake it to golden perfection, and prepare the creamy sauce that will take this dish to the next level. The combination of the crispy, cheesy crust and rich, creamy sauce is truly what makes this chicken so mouthwatering!
Let’s dive into the next steps!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Now comes the fun part—coating the chicken with all the delicious ingredients that will give it a crispy, cheesy exterior.
7️⃣ Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture, making sure it’s well-coated.
8️⃣ Press the coated chicken into the crushed Ritz crackers, covering it completely. Then, gently press the chicken into the shredded cheddar cheese, pressing lightly so the cheese sticks to the chicken.
9️⃣ Place each coated chicken breast onto the prepared baking pan, ensuring they are evenly spaced out to allow the heat to circulate for even cooking.
💡 Coating Tip: For an extra-crispy coating, you can double-coat the chicken by repeating the egg wash and Ritz cracker steps!
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Once the chicken is coated and ready to go, it’s time to bake it to crispy, cheesy perfection.
🔟 Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
1️⃣1️⃣ Check the chicken after 25 minutes to make sure it’s cooking evenly. If necessary, rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure the chicken bakes evenly on all sides.
💡 Baking Tip: If you want the cheese to melt even more, you can broil the chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking for that perfect golden bubbly top. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is baking, you’ll have just enough time to prepare the creamy sauce that’ll bring everything together. The sauce is rich, tangy, and perfectly balances the crispy chicken.
1️⃣2️⃣ In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
1️⃣3️⃣ Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
1️⃣4️⃣ Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
1️⃣5️⃣ Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for about 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
1️⃣6️⃣ Stir in the cream of chicken soup, followed by the sour cream. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
1️⃣7️⃣ Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Once heated through, remove the sauce from heat and set aside.
💡 Sauce Tip: If you like a richer sauce, you can add a bit more sour cream or even a splash of chicken broth to thin it out if it becomes too thick.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Now that everything is ready—crispy chicken and a creamy sauce—it’s time to bring it all together.
1️⃣8️⃣ Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
1️⃣9️⃣ Serve the chicken with a generous scoop of the creamy sauce poured over the top. You can also serve the sauce on the side for extra dipping if you prefer!
💡 Serving Tip: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Expert Tips & Variations
1. Spice It Up!
🌶 If you like a bit more heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the Ritz cracker mixture. Or, stir chopped jalapeños into the sauce for an extra spicy kick!
2. Use Different Crackers
🍪 While Ritz crackers are the classic choice for their buttery flavor, you can also experiment with other crackers, like saltines or garlic butter crackers, for a different twist!
3. Add a Veggie Side
🥦 For an extra veggie boost, try serving this crispy chicken with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a side of sautéed spinach.
At this point, your Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken is ready to enjoy—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together.
FAQs, Storage Tips & Final Thoughts
Now that your Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken is ready and everyone is going to be in awe of your cooking skills, let’s wrap things up with some frequently asked questions, helpful storage tips, and final thoughts on why this dish is an absolute winner!
1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dish can be prepped ahead of time to make your life easier. Here’s how you can do it:
✔️ Unbaked: You can prepare the coated chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, you can simply pop them in the oven and follow the baking instructions.
✔️ Baked: Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool completely, then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp up the coating again!
💡 Tip: If you’re preparing ahead of time, be sure to keep the sauce separate until just before serving to maintain the freshness of the creamy sauce.
2. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Definitely! If you prefer chicken thighs, they work wonderfully in this recipe. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a great option for a more rich, succulent chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. How Can I Make the Sauce Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten up the sauce, here are a few ideas:
✔️ Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
✔️ Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier tang.
✔️ Try olive oil instead of butter for a lighter, heart-healthy alternative.
💡 Sauce Tip: You can also experiment with vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a lighter, more vegan-friendly version.
4. How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a spicy kick, you can easily adjust the heat level of this dish. Here are some suggestions:
🌶 Stir in cayenne pepper or chili powder into the Ritz cracker coating for a nice kick.
🌶 Add diced jalapeños to the sauce for a little extra heat and flavor.
🌶 Drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish just before serving.
💡 Spicy Tip: If you like a smoky spice, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the cracker coating or the sauce.
5. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Simply crush them and follow the same coating process as the regular Ritz crackers.
💡 Gluten-Free Tip: Be sure to also use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own sauce with gluten-free flour to keep the entire dish gluten-free.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Chicken
This Crispy Cheddar Ritz Cracker Chicken is a showstopper that combines crispy, cheesy chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Here’s Why It’s a Must-Try:
✅ Crispy and Flavorful – The Ritz cracker coating adds the perfect crunch.
✅ Creamy and Comforting – The cheddar cheese and creamy sauce are the ultimate comfort.
✅ Quick & Easy – With only a few ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in about 45 minutes.
✅ Customizable – Make it your own with spice, different meats, or lighter options.
✅ Great for Leftovers – This dish tastes even better the next day!
If you love cheesy, crispy chicken with a rich sauce, this is the perfect recipe for you. It’s comfort food at its best, and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your home!
Now It’s Your Turn!
Try this recipe, share your photos, and let me know how you’ve customized it! Did you make it spicier? Add more cheese? Drop a comment below and tell me how it turned out. 🍗🧀🌶
Happy cooking! 🎉🍽
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Ritz Cracker Chicken – The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A crispy, cheesy chicken that is simple to make and bursting with flavor! This Ritz Cracker Chicken combines crunchy Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for busy nights when you want something both easy and indulgent!
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Garlic pepper, to taste
For the sauce:
- 10 oz. can cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2️⃣ Prepare the coating:
In one shallow dish, whisk together the egg and ¼ cup milk.
In another shallow dish, place the crushed Ritz crackers.
In a third shallow dish, add the shredded cheddar cheese.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper.
3️⃣ Coat the chicken:
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg and milk mixture.
- Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken.
- Coat the chicken in the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing lightly to adhere.
4️⃣ Bake the chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is crispy.
5️⃣ Make the sauce:
While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce:
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ¼ cup milk.
- Whisk until well combined and heated through.
6️⃣ Serve:
Once the chicken is done, serve it hot, with the creamy sauce poured over the top.
Notes
- Sauce Variation: You can make a mushroom version of this sauce by adding sautéed mushrooms or using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Add a side: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For extra crunch: Top with additional shredded cheese and bake for the last 5 minutes for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
