Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ritz Cracker Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional baked chicken, featuring a crispy crust made from crushed Ritz crackers. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Pair it with your favorite sides for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on 1 serving (1 chicken breast), this dish contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into melted butter, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Coat the buttered chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top of the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the Ritz crackers with other brands of buttery crackers or even homemade breadcrumbs for a different flavor. For a healthier option, use whole grain crackers and low-fat cheese.
Serving and Pairings
Ritz Cracker Chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. A drizzle of gravy or a side of dipping sauce enhances the flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the butter dip will result in less crispy chicken.
- Overcrowding the baking dish may cause steaming instead of baking.
- Using old crackers can diminish flavor and texture.
- Forgetting to check for doneness can lead to undercooked chicken.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and spices before coating.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the cracker mixture.
- Use a baking rack in the dish for even crispiness.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
This dish pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in advance. Refrigerate until ready to bake.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, Ritz crackers contain gluten. However, gluten-free crackers can be substituted.
How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cracker mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ritz Cracker Chicken is an easy yet delicious dish that brings crunch and flavor to your dinner table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this delightful meal with your favorite sides and watch it become a family favorite!
Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into melted butter, ensuring it's well-coated.
- Coat the buttered chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top of the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
