Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken
Crispy oven-baked chicken with a flavorful Parmesan and Ritz cracker coating, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, offering savory, crunchy bites with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine Ritz cracker crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and parsley flakes in a bowl.
- Mix well to combine.
- Dip chicken pieces in melted butter, then roll in the crumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange the coated chicken in a shallow baking dish, skin side up.
- Pour remaining melted butter over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour, without turning the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz cracker crumbs. You can also add spices like garlic powder or paprika to the crumb mixture for additional flavor. If you're short on time, use pre-cut chicken pieces. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best texture. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of Basic Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with Easy Oriental Casserole for a delightful combination of flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy to complement the crispy chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the coating remains crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Oven Baked Chicken contains roughly 158 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 985mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces, but the dish may lack some of the classic flavor and moisture that the skin provides. To compensate, you might want to increase the amount of butter or add a marinade before coating the chicken.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use a blend of mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option. However, keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly.
How can I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will guarantee that the chicken is safe to eat while maintaining juiciness, especially for larger pieces.
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).