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Ritz Cracker Chicken: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Make


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Crispy, flavorful chicken coated in buttery Ritz cracker crumbs and Parmesan cheese, baked or pan-fried to golden perfection. An easy, family-friendly favorite!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 36 crackers)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: If chicken breasts are thick, pound them to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut each breast into 2-3 inch pieces.
  2. Crush the Ritz Crackers: Place Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and crush into fine crumbs. Alternatively, use a food processor.
  3. Combine Cracker Coating: In a shallow dish, combine crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
  5. Dredge in Flour: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
  6. Dip in Egg Wash: Dip floured chicken into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  7. Coat with Cracker Mixture: Dredge chicken in the Ritz cracker mixture, pressing gently to coat.
  8. Place on Baking Sheet: Place coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Drizzle with Oil: Drizzle chicken with olive oil (or vegetable oil).
  11. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and coating is golden brown.
  12. Rest: Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  13. Heat Oil: Heat olive oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet over medium heat.
  14. Cook Chicken: Carefully place chicken in the hot skillet, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and coating is golden brown and crispy.
  15. Drain Excess Oil: Remove chicken from skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels.
  16. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley (optional).
  17. Serve immediately.
  18. Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green salad, mac and cheese, or coleslaw.
  19. Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, ketchup, or sweet chili sauce.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when pan-frying.
  • Use fresh Ritz crackers for best flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • For gluten-free, use gluten-free Ritz-style crackers and gluten-free flour.
  • Add cheese to the chicken during the last few minutes of baking.
  • Prepare the chicken ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for a few hours.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes