Buttery Baked Chicken
Buttery baked chicken with crunchy cracker coating offers a flavorful, crispy, and juicy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray a cookie sheet with Pam and melt the stick of butter, then pour it into the pan.
- Beat the eggs in one bowl.
- Combine the crushed Saltine crackers, season salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in another bowl.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat it very well with the cracker mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then turn the chicken breasts over.
- Bake for another 30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs to the cracker mixture, such as dried thyme or oregano. You can also substitute panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating. If you want a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the buttery baked chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Simple Chicken Rice Casserole for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or a baked potato. A creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli, would also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover buttery baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttery Baked Chicken contains roughly 533 calories, with 28g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What can I do if I don't have Saltine crackers?
If you don't have Saltine crackers, you can substitute with crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture. Each alternative will bring its own unique flavor and crunch to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs. Additionally, ensure that the season salt and other spices are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the buttery baked chicken without any gluten concerns.
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).