Ritz Chicken
Crispy Ritz Chicken features tender baked chicken coated with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs, seasoned with herbs and spices, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put Ritz crackers in a freezer bag and roll with a rolling pin to crush.
- Cover chicken breasts with melted butter.
- Roll the buttered chicken in the crushed bread crumbs.
- Bake the coated chicken uncovered for 45-60 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let stand for 4-5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider adding some panko breadcrumbs to the Ritz cracker crumbs. You can substitute Romano cheese with Parmesan if needed. If you're short on time, use pre-crushed cracker crumbs. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, and feel free to add some grated lemon zest for an extra zing. This dish also works well with skin-on chicken for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ritz Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Alpine Potatoes for a comforting touch. Consider adding a tangy dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This dish is also excellent over a bed of wild rice for a hearty serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious not to overcook, as this can make the chicken dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Chicken contains roughly 833 calories, with 26g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (346% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 97g 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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using skin-on chicken can enhance the flavor and create a crispier texture. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as skin-on pieces may require a few extra minutes to cook through thoroughly.
What can I substitute for the Ritz crackers?
You can use any buttery cracker or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute for Ritz crackers. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crackers or use crushed nuts for a different texture and flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should be no longer pink in the center.
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).