Ritz Cracker Chicken

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

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with salt, pepper, and dried parsley.
3. In separate dishes, place the sour cream and grated cheddar cheese.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken breast half into the sour cream, ensuring all sides are coated.
2. Next, dip the chicken into the grated cheese, followed by the Ritz cracker mixture. Coat thoroughly with the crackers.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

1. Place the coated chicken in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50-55 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. While the chicken is baking, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, butter, and milk in a small saucepan.
2. Cook the sauce over medium-high heat, stirring until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once the chicken is finished baking, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
2. 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)

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Can I freeze the chicken?
   Yes, freeze the coated but uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
8. 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.
9. Can I use low-fat ingredients?
   Yes, you can substitute low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheddar cheese to lighten up the recipe.
10. 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!

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