This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—juicy chicken breasts (or thighs) coated in a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust with a hint of savory Parmesan and spices. It’s incredibly easy to make, bakes up in just 35 minutes, and delivers that satisfying crunch in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or a zesty dipping sauce!

Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30–35 crackers), finely crushed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then press it into the Ritz cracker mixture, coating all sides thoroughly. Shake off any excess.
4. Arrange in Dish: Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of each piece to ensure a crispy, golden crust.
5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
6. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Add Some Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the cracker coating for a spicy kick.
• Air Fryer Version: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the coated chicken lightly with cooking spray and air fry for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Ensure Parmesan and other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Make Ahead: Coat the chicken up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to maintain crispiness.

This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is sure to become a family favorite with its irresistible crunch and buttery flavor. Share your creations with us using #RitzCrackerChicken and enjoy this cozy, crowd-pleasing dish!

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