Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Upgrade

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Introduction: A Golden, Buttery Twist on Classic Baked Chicken

There’s something undeniably comforting about crispy, golden-brown chicken fresh from the oven—especially when it’s coated in buttery, flaky Ritz crackers. This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken recipe takes the humble chicken breast to new heights with a crunchy, flavorful crust that’s irresistibly rich yet surprisingly simple to make.

Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The mayonnaise keeps the chicken juicy, while the Ritz cracker crumbs create a savory, buttery crunch that rivals fried chicken—without the mess of deep-frying. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into this easy, foolproof recipe that turns basic ingredients into something extraordinary!

Ingredients: Simple, Pantry-Friendly, and Delicious

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 1 cup finely crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best texture)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (for a smoky touch)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (mixed into the crumbs)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick.

2. Crush the Ritz Crackers

  • Place crackers in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine (or pulse in a food processor).

3. Season the Crumbs

  • In a shallow bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Coat the Chicken

  • Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast (about 1-2 tbsp per breast).
  • Press the mayo-coated chicken into the Ritz crumbs, turning to coat evenly.

5. Bake to Crispy Perfection

  • Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes (depending on thickness) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden.
  • For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

6. Rest and Serve

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ 5-Ingredient Magic – Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✅ Juicy Inside, Crispy Outside – Mayonnaise locks in moisture.
✅ Kid-Approved – Picky eaters devour this!
✅ Healthier Than Fried – All the crunch, none of the grease.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

🍗 Pound chicken evenly – Ensures even cooking.
🔥 Don’t skip the broil – Adds that extra golden crunch.
🧂 Season generously – Ritz crackers are mild, so amp up the flavor.
🔄 Try different crackers – Cheez-Its or saltines work too!

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad.
  • Drizzle with: Honey mustard, ranch, or a squeeze of lemon.
  • Leftovers? Chop for salads or sandwiches—stays crispy when reheated in the oven.

Conclusion: A Weeknight Winner with a Buttery Crunch

This Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is proof that the simplest recipes often yield the most delicious results. With its golden, buttery crust and tender, flavorful meat, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in minutes.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving comfort food, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. So grab those Ritz crackers and get ready to bake chicken that’s crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible!

Happy cooking! 🍗✨

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