Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare and combines the rich flavor of sharp cheddar with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers. The result is tender chicken breasts with a flavorful, crispy coating that the whole family will love. Plus, it bakes in the oven for a healthier alternative to frying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
2 tbsp butter, melted
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a shallow bowl, beat eggs with milk.
In another bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then press into the cracker and cheese mixture, coating thoroughly.
Place coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Makes 4 servings
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add paprika or cayenne pepper to the crust mixture for a spicy kick.
Substitute cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavors.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
Serve with ranch or honey mustard dipping sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep crust crispy.
Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

How do I make the coating extra crispy?

Spray the coated chicken lightly with cooking spray before baking.

Can I bake this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, Ritz crackers contain gluten. Use gluten-free crackers as a substitute.

Can I use shredded cheese blends?

Yes, blend different cheeses to customize the flavor.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and avoid excessive flipping.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double ingredients and bake in a larger dish or multiple pans.

What sides go well with this chicken?

Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Thaw completely before breading and baking.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy Ritz cracker crust. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers and guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort.