Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
• Medium mixing bowl
• Rolling pin or food processor (for crushing crackers)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or fork (for dipping chicken)
• Small bowl for mustard (optional)
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)

How to Make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Making Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is simple, and it comes together in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Ritz Cracker Coating

1. Crush the Ritz Crackers: In a food processor or by using a rolling pin, crush the Ritz crackers until they become fine crumbs. You want the crumbs to be small, but not powdery.
2. Add Parmesan and Seasonings: In a shallow bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Prepare the Dipping Station: In another shallow bowl, pour the melted butter. (You can also mix in Dijon mustard if you prefer.)
2. Dip the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and dip it into the melted butter, coating it completely. Then, dredge the chicken into the Ritz cracker mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well. Coat both sides of the chicken.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange on Baking Dish: Place the coated chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. For easy cleanup, you can line the dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the crust is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
2. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle a bit more parsley on top for a fresh, green touch.

Tips for the Best Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: This recipe works best with boneless chicken since it cooks more quickly and the coating sticks better. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Crush the Ritz Crackers Well: The finer the cracker crumbs, the better the coating will adhere. Make sure the crackers are crushed to a fine consistency, but not so much that they turn into dust.
• Add Mustard for Extra Flavor: If you want to add a tangy twist to the coating, mix Dijon mustard with the melted butter before dipping the chicken. This adds flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For a thicker, crunchier coating, you can dip the chicken in the melted butter and cracker mixture twice.
• Try Different Cheese: While Parmesan works wonderfully in this recipe, you can try other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend for a unique flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken, you can store it for later enjoyment.

• Refrigerating: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help keep the crust crispy. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.