Fancy Shake-N-Bake
A flavorful baked chicken dish coated with crushed Ritz crackers and seasoned sour cream mixture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a crispy, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, dried onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Dip each chicken breast into the sour cream mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
- Then, coat the chicken breasts with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a glass dish sprayed with Pam.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the sour cream mixture. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought seasoned bread crumbs instead of crushed Ritz crackers. For a twist, try substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option while keeping the dish creamy. Make sure to check the chicken's internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fancy Shake-N-Bake chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Joann'S Chicken Casserole for a comforting family dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice pilaf. A light lemon vinaigrette can enhance the dish’s flavors, making it a delightful addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the coating. Alternatively, you can microwave it on a low setting, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fancy Shake-N-Bake contains roughly 161 calories, with 11g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but the cooking time may vary slightly. The skin will add extra flavor and crispiness, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature to ensure it's cooked through. However, the coating might not adhere as well as it does on skinless chicken breasts.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, try using panko breadcrumbs for a similar crunch or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option. You can also use any plain flavored crackers you have on hand. Just ensure they are finely crushed to create a good coating.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken breasts in the sour cream mixture and breading, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick dinner option. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).