If you’re looking for a dinner idea that’s equal parts crispy, creamy, and comforting, this Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is a tried-and-true favorite. It takes simple pantry ingredients and turns them into a juicy, golden-crusted main dish that the whole family will devour. Think buttery, savory crunch on the outside, with tender chicken inside—it’s home-cooked magic with minimal effort.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you just want something nostalgic and delicious, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Who This Recipe Is For

This dish is for home cooks who crave comfort without the fuss. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef looking for something cozy and classic, this recipe delivers. It’s easy to prepare, uses ingredients you likely already have, and doesn’t require any special equipment or culinary training.

If your household loves crispy chicken but you’re trying to avoid the mess and calories of deep frying, this baked version delivers all the texture and flavor with a fraction of the cleanup.

It’s also great for:

• Picky eaters

• Potluck dinners

• Meal prep and leftovers

• Budget-friendly cooking

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, buttery coating without deep frying

• Juicy, flavorful chicken every time

• Quick prep + bake (ready in about 35 minutes)

• Family-friendly and kid-approved

• Great for leftovers and meal prep

• Pantry staples = easy and affordable

Ingredients at a Glance

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 1/2 cups Ritz cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup melted butter

Seasoning Blend:

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Optional:

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish (9×13 works well)

• Rolling pin or food processor (for crushing crackers)

• Shallow bowl for dredging

• Pastry brush (optional, for butter)

• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

• Oven mitts and aluminum foil (for resting or keeping warm)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Crumb Coating

Crush one sleeve of Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using a rolling pin and a sealed plastic bag, or pulse them in a food processor. In a shallow bowl, mix the cracker crumbs with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

3. Dip & Dredge

Melt the butter in a bowl. Dip each chicken breast in the butter, coating thoroughly. Then dredge the chicken in the crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

4. Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top for extra crispiness and flavor.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden and crispy.

6. Rest & Serve

Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Expert Tips & Tweaks

• For Extra Crispiness: Place the chicken on a wire rack over the baking dish. This helps air circulate and crisp all sides.

• Add Heat: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to the butter for a spicy version.

• Go Cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the crumb mix for a cheesy twist.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buttery crackers in place of Ritz.

• Thin Chicken Faster: Slice thick chicken breasts in half horizontally for quicker cooking and even texture.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of our top picks:

• Mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic pairing

• Mac & cheese for the ultimate comfort meal

• Roasted vegetables for a healthy twist

• Garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness

• Sweet corn on the cob or honey-glazed carrots for a kid-friendly plate

Leftovers & Storage

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the coating crispy. Avoid the microwave if possible—it softens the crust.

Freezing: You can freeze breaded (but uncooked) chicken for up to 2 months. Freeze on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10 extra minutes to the cook time.

Food & Drink Pairings

Wine: Chardonnay or a buttery Pinot Grigio pairs well with this rich, crispy dish.
Beer: A light lager, cream ale, or pilsner balances the buttery flavor.
Non-Alcoholic: Lemon iced tea or sparkling water with lime adds a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work great and tend to be juicier. Just adjust cooking time by a few minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking. Add an extra 5 minutes to the cook time if going straight from fridge to oven.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

Use any buttery cracker, crushed cornflakes, or even panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Don’t overcrowd the basket.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is well-coated in butter and that the crumbs are pressed in firmly. Let the coated chicken sit for 5–10 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is one of those nostalgic dishes that reminds you how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy, satisfying dinner, this recipe won’t disappoint. It’s buttery, golden, flavorful—and guaranteed to get rave reviews every time.

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