Aunt Helen'S Crunchy Chicken
Crispy, flavorful chicken breasts coated with Ritz cracker crumbs, Parmesan, and herbs, then baked to perfection. A comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together cracker crumbs, parsley, salt, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and black pepper.
- Roll each chicken breast in melted margarine, then in the crumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts, skin side up, in a casserole dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to crisp the coating.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the crumb mixture. If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs as substitutes. Also, try using chicken thighs for a juicier option. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated for maximum crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Helen's Crunchy Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Noodles Supreme for a comforting dinner. You could also complement it with Slow Cooker Dressing for a delightful flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crunchy chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Helen'S Crunchy Chicken contains roughly 347 calories, with 25g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. At about 347 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, using skin-on chicken breasts can enhance the flavor and moisture of the dish. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if the chicken is larger to ensure it cooks through properly.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you're looking for a substitute for margarine, unsalted butter works beautifully. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Each will impart a slightly different flavor but will still yield delicious results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the crumb mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference. This spicy twist can elevate the flavor profile of Aunt Helen's Crunchy Chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).