Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken: Golden, Juicy, and Utterly Irresistible

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who loves discovering comfort food with a creative twist. While journeying through small-town diners and family kitchens across the U.S., I discovered a retro recipe that has stood the test of time: Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken. Juicy, tender chicken coated in buttery, golden Ritz cracker crumbs delivers crunch, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. This dish is simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for Sunday suppers, making it a true comfort classic worth rediscovering.

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is the ultimate marriage of convenience and indulgence. Chicken breasts are coated in crushed Ritz crackers, butter, and seasonings, then baked until golden brown. The crackers create a crispy, buttery crust while sealing in moisture, leaving the chicken tender and juicy inside. With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile, family-friendly dinner that feels both rustic and deliciously indulgent.

Why This Recipe Works

• Buttery Ritz Coating: Creates unmatched crispiness and flavor.
• Juicy Interior: Cracker crust locks in chicken moisture.
• Simple Ingredients: All pantry staples, budget-friendly.
• Baked, Not Fried: Crispy texture without deep-frying.
• Crowd Appeal: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Chicken is a lean protein source.
• Balanced Energy: Pair with veggies or whole grains for complete nutrition.
• Baked, Not Fried: Less oil means a lighter meal.
• Portion-Friendly: Each breast can be cut into strips for mindful servings.
• Comfort Food Joy: Homemade meals support mental and emotional wellness.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Crush Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. Mix with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan. Dip chicken breasts into melted butter, then coat thoroughly in cracker mixture. Arrange on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Garnish with parsley before serving. The result: juicy chicken wrapped in a buttery, crunchy crust that feels both nostalgic and indulgent—perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Cracker Coating:
   Crush Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and rolling with a pin. Pour into a shallow bowl and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese if using.
3. Melt the Butter:
   In a separate shallow dish, melt butter until smooth and liquid. This acts as the perfect binder for the cracker coating.
4. Coat the Chicken:
   Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Dip each piece first into the melted butter, coating all sides. Then press firmly into the cracker mixture, ensuring an even, generous crust.
5. Arrange for Baking:
   Place coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle any remaining butter over the tops for extra richness.
6. Bake to Perfection:
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness.

The result: perfectly juicy chicken wrapped in a buttery, golden crust that cracks with every bite—classic comfort food elevated by simplicity and flavor.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 14g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg

Serving with Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Serve Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken hot from the oven, when the crust is at peak crunch. Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic family dinner, or lighten it up with a fresh garden salad. It also works beautifully with mac and cheese, roasted vegetables, or even in sandwiches the next day. Slice into strips for kids or casual gatherings. However you serve it, the combination of juicy chicken and buttery crunch guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites around the table.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Add Heat: Mix cayenne or chili flakes into the crumb coating.
• Cheesy Twist: Use sharp cheddar in the coating for bolder flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Strips: Cut chicken into tenders before coating.
• Herb Upgrade: Add dried Italian seasoning for a more aromatic crust.
• Meal Prep: Bake ahead, reheat in oven to keep crust crispy.

FAQ:

The Bottom Line

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken is the perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor—a recipe that proves sometimes the simplest ingredients make the best meals. With buttery crunch, juicy chicken, and minimal prep, it’s comfort food that fits into busy schedules yet delivers big flavor. Whether for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or special gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s proof that old-fashioned recipes still have a place in our kitchens today, connecting us through timeless, delicious comfort.