This Ritz Cracker Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender baked chicken with a crispy cracker coating and a creamy, savory sauce. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple to make: Minimal prep with ingredients you likely have on hand.
Crispy and cheesy: Ritz crackers add crunch, while cheddar cheese delivers gooey goodness.

Kid-approved: A meal the whole family will enjoy.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or sauce to suit your taste.
Comfort food at its best: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended)

1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt, to taste
Garlic pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

10 oz can cream of chicken soup

1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter

Directions

Preheat oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Set up coating stations: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup milk. Place the crushed Ritz crackers in another dish and the shredded cheddar cheese in a third.
Season chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper.

Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, press shredded cheese onto the chicken, and coat thoroughly with the crushed Ritz crackers.
Bake: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Prepare the sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup milk. Whisk until smooth and heated through.

Serve: Plate the chicken and pour the creamy sauce over the top. Enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Different crackers: Use buttery club crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a twist on the crust.

Add herbs: Mix dried parsley or thyme into the cracker coating for extra flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the cracker crumbs.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and soup substitutes for a lactose-free option.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free crackers and soup to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals. Heat the sauce on the stovetop or microwave until warm.

Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded chicken for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I use other types of crackers?

Yes, you can use buttery club crackers, saltines, or even panko breadcrumbs.

What sides go well with Ritz Cracker Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.

How do I ensure the crust stays crispy?

Bake the chicken on a wire rack over the baking pan to allow airflow underneath.

Can I make the sauce lighter?

Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk for a lighter version.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is ideal, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend also work well.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I cook this dish in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry the chicken at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely. Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Ritz Cracker Chicken is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with a rich and creamy sauce, it’s an irresistible dinner that’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!