Ritz Chicken

Ritz Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting crunch of Ritz crackers and the succulent tenderness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing meal for gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can create a deliciously crispy chicken that will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this easy and satisfying dish.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Ritz Chicken recipe is all about ease and flavor. Here are a few reasons why you will love it:

• Crispy Texture: The crushed Ritz crackers provide a crunchy coating that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
• Quick Prep Time: It takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar taste of Ritz crackers makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to any meal.

Ingredient Notes

When it comes to Ritz Chicken, quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 egg: This will help bind the cracker coating to the chicken.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the chicken.
• 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers: About 50 crackers, these provide the signature crunch.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a flavorful kick.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall taste.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: For a bit of heat.
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: A blend that perfectly complements chicken.
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: About 2 pounds total; the star of the dish.
• ½ cup melted butter: Ensures a golden, crispy coating.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools:

• Baking sheet: A large one to hold all the chicken pieces.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the egg, milk, and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the egg and milk smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Optional, for slightly flattening the chicken for even cooking.

Ritz Chicken: From Prep to Plate

Making Ritz Chicken is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these simple steps for a delectable dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets beautifully golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined. In another bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Drizzle the melted butter over the coated chicken breasts. This will help create a crispy exterior as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, and watch it disappear!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This Ritz Chicken recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers to replace the Ritz for a gluten-free version.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or soy milk.
• Low-Carb: Use crushed pork rinds in place of crackers for a lower carbohydrate option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture for added heat.

Avoid These Traps

While making Ritz Chicken is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Don’t skip the egg wash: It’s crucial for the cracker coating to stick properly to the chicken.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet: Leave space between chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Do not substitute the crackers with something that does not provide a similar texture: Ritz crackers are essential for that signature crunch.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), here’s how to store them:

Allow the Ritz Chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the coating remains crispy.

You can also freeze the uncooked coated chicken. Simply place the prepared chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen for an additional 10-15 minutes, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the cracker mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Ritz Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can even serve it with a dipping sauce for added flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you want to add some heat, consider mixing some hot sauce into the egg wash or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the cracker coating. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce.

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Bring It to the Table

Now that you have the recipe for Ritz Chicken, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy. The delightful crunch of the coating combined with the juicy chicken makes for a satisfying bite that is sure to impress.

Whether you’re serving it on a cozy family night or at a larger gathering, Ritz Chicken is bound to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, get into the kitchen, and start cooking this delicious dish today! Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family. Enjoy the process and the smiles that come with sharing a home-cooked meal!