Description
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delightful, cheesy baked chicken dish featuring boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of cheddar cheese and seasoned Ritz cracker crumbs. Baked to golden perfection and optionally served with a creamy chicken sauce, this recipe offers a satisfying, crispy texture and rich flavor that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 1 cup, crushed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Sauce (Optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside to prepare for the chicken.
- Prepare Coating: In separate shallow bowls, pour the milk in one, place the shredded cheddar cheese in another, and combine the crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl. Stir the cracker mixture to evenly distribute the spices.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the milk, then press it firmly into the shredded cheddar cheese so the cheese sticks well. Afterward, press the cheese-coated chicken breast into the seasoned cracker mixture, ensuring an even coating all around.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the chicken to help with browning and crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is golden, crispy on the outside, and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Sauce (Optional): While the chicken bakes, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 tablespoon of milk in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warm, smooth, and well combined.
- Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked and crispy, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. Offer the optional creamy chicken sauce on the side or drizzled over the chicken for added richness and moisture.
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- If you prefer a spicier crust, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture.
- This recipe works well with other cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack if cheddar is not available.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- The optional sauce adds creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American