Ritz Cracker Chicken
Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken offers a crunchy, cheesy exterior with tender chicken inside, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings craving bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Crush Ritz crackers and mix with Parmesan cheese, pepper, salt, and parsley in a shallow dish.
- Dip each chicken piece into melted butter, then coat with the cracker mixture.
- Place coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier coating, consider adding crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the Ritz cracker mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, grated cheddar or mozzarella can work as substitutes. To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk or yogurt for a couple of hours before coating. This is also a great option for a buffet supper casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Ritz Cracker Chicken pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a creamy cheese potato dish or roasted asparagus. For a heartier dinner, it complements mashed potatoes or rice perfectly, making it suitable for any family dinner or gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ritz Cracker 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 15 minutes to maintain its crispy texture. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but the coating may lose its crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Cracker Chicken contains roughly 140 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (155% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 729mg per serving (32% 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; just be aware that it may take a bit longer to cook through. The skin will add extra flavor and crispiness, but ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?
Ritz Cracker Chicken is versatile and pairs well with various sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, try adding a side of honey chicken to enhance the dinner experience.
Can I freeze the coated chicken before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time while ensuring they reach the proper temperature.
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).