Oven Fried Ritz Chicken
Crispy oven-fried chicken breasts coated with crushed Ritz crackers and yogurt, offering a flavorful, crunchy texture. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare a casserole dish.
- Dip each chicken breast in yogurt, then roll in crushed Ritz crackers to coat evenly.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the casserole dish.
- Bake the chicken for 30 minutes.
- Turn the chicken breasts over and bake for an additional 30 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the yogurt before coating the chicken. If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker or panko can work as a substitute, though the texture may vary slightly. To keep the chicken moist, do not skip the yogurt; it acts as a marinade and helps the coating adhere well. For a variation, try using a mix of spices in the cracker crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Oven Fried Ritz Chicken with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of rice. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a light dipping sauce or a tangy coleslaw. This dish is also great for meal prep; just make extra to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. Alternatively, you can use the leftovers in a Chicken Treat salad for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Fried Ritz Chicken contains roughly 169 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, but the cooking time may vary slightly. The skin can add extra flavor and moisture, but it won't get as crispy as the coating. If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider removing the skin before coating with yogurt and Ritz crumbs.
What can I use instead of yogurt?
If you don't have yogurt, sour cream or buttermilk can be great alternatives. They both provide moisture and a tangy flavor that complements the chicken. Just ensure that the consistency is similar, so the cracker crumbs adhere well. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if you're looking for a non-dairy option.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced. If you're unsure, bake it a little longer while keeping an eye on the coating.
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).