This Ritz Cracker Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! With crispy cracker crumbs and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a quick dinner that everyone will love.
I often serve it with mashed potatoes, and let’s be real, who can resist that crunch on top? It’s like a chicken dinner with a delicious surprise! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs give the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer chicken breasts for their leaner profile, that’s a great substitute. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Ritz Crackers: These add a wonderful buttery crunch! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. You can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter version or use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley enhance the flavor. Feel free to swap them with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano if you have them. Fresh herbs will give a fresher taste!
What’s the Best Way to Crush the Crackers?
Crushing Ritz crackers can be fun! Using a zip-top bag is a great idea to start, but here are some tips:
- Make sure the bag is securely sealed to avoid any spills.
- A rolling pin works well, but your hands can also do the trick if you want to get a little creative!
- The goal is fine crumbs, but leaving a few bigger pieces can add extra crunch.
This attention to texture will really help in achieving that perfect topping!
How Can You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy is all about the cooking process:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the butter and crumbs stick.
- Brushing with butter not only adds flavor but also seals in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the chicken once it hits 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
Following these tips will give you delicious, juicy results!
Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if preferred)
For the Cracker Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (approx. 30 crackers)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish and flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Ritz Cracker Chicken will take you about 15 minutes for prep and about 40-45 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour to have a delicious meal ready. That’s quick for such an amazing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot for cooking your chicken.
2. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
3. Crush the Crackers:
Take your Ritz crackers and place them in a large zip-top plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly, then use a rolling pin or your hands to crush them into fine crumbs. It’s a fun way to get some energy out!
4. Mix the Seasoning:
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cracker crumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together so the flavors mix nicely.
5. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help the butter and crumbs stick better. Place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
6. Butter It Up:
Brush each chicken piece generously with melted butter. This will add a luxurious flavor and help the crumbs crisp up beautifully.
7. Add the Cracker Topping:
Sprinkle the seasoned cracker crumbs evenly over each chicken piece, pressing lightly to make sure they adhere well.
8. Garnish with Lemon:
If you’d like, tuck the thin lemon slices between the chicken pieces or on top. This will add a lovely flavor as it bakes!
9. Bake:
Bake uncovered for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (you can check with a meat thermometer— it should read 165°F / 74°C) and the cracker topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy.
10. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven, and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the juices a chance to settle, making your chicken extra juicy!
Enjoy your crispy, buttery Ritz Cracker Chicken with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for moisture and flavor, you can easily substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as breasts can cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for the Crackers?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers. Just make sure to check the packaging for a gluten-free label!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Ritz Cracker Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time! Assemble the chicken with the cracker topping and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold from the fridge.
