Name: Crispy Cheddar Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484891H15M48S
Total time: PT-484891H15M48S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts; 2 sleeves Ritz crackers; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup whole milk; 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 10-ounce can cream of chicken soup; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 2 tablespoons butter

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it combines crispy, cheesy chicken with a smooth, creamy sauce, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The Ritz cracker crust gives the chicken a satisfying crunch, while the cheddar cheese adds richness and depth. Topping it all off with a creamy sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter makes every bite feel indulgent. It’s simple, comforting, and sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts
2 sleeves Ritz crackers
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
½ cup whole milk
3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the sauce:

1 10-ounce can cream of chicken soup
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
If you are using chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders, cut each chicken breast into 3 large pieces.
Crush the Ritz crackers in a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
In three separate shallow pans, pour the milk, grated cheddar cheese, and crushed cracker crumbs.
Stir the salt and pepper into the cracker crumbs to combine.
Dip each piece of chicken into the milk, then coat it with the grated cheddar cheese, pressing the cheese into the chicken with your fingers.
Next, dip the cheesy chicken into the cracker crumbs, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to coat it evenly.
Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and place the coated chicken inside.
Sprinkle the dried parsley evenly over the chicken.
Cover the pan with tin foil and bake for 35 minutes.
After 35 minutes, remove the tin foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is hot and smooth.
Once the chicken is done baking, serve it with the creamy sauce drizzled on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cracker mixture or the sauce for some heat.
Different cheese: Try using a different cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, though the crust may lose some of its crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, coat it, and place it in the baking dish the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it the next day.

Can I use a different type of cracker?

While Ritz crackers give the chicken a buttery flavor and perfect crunch, you can use any buttery cracker of your choice, such as Club crackers or saltines.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten this dish, you could use low-fat or reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and opt for a lighter cream of chicken soup or a homemade sauce using a low-fat cream base.

Can I bake this recipe without foil?

Yes, you can bake the chicken without foil, but covering it helps the chicken stay moist. If you choose to skip the foil, just keep an eye on it to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want the sauce to be thicker, you can simmer it for a few more minutes or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it up.

What can I serve with Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Can I freeze leftover Crispy Cheddar Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken, but the coating may lose some of its crispness. To freeze, wrap each chicken piece in plastic wrap and foil, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How can I make this gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs, and make sure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

While the chicken is the main component of this dish, you could substitute it with plant-based protein like tofu or a vegetarian chicken alternative, although the texture may vary.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, cheesy, and crispy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its delicious flavors, simple preparation, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy this satisfying dish on its own or paired with your favorite sides for a complete meal!