Crispy Butter Chicken Recipe
This Crispy Butter Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of buttery, crispy coating with tender chicken breasts. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Prepare the Coating:
Set up two shallow bowls: one with the beaten eggs and the other with the cracker crumbs. Mix the cracker crumbs with the garlic salt and black pepper. -
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the cracker crumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs to the chicken. -
Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the coated chicken breasts in a 9×13 inch baking dish. -
Add the Butter:
Evenly distribute the pieces of butter over the tops of the chicken breasts. -
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). -
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, buttery chicken with your favorite sides!
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Butter Chicken
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Use Fresh Ritz Crackers:
For the best texture and flavor, make sure to use fresh Ritz crackers. Stale crackers might result in a less crispy coating. -
Pound the Chicken Breasts:
If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even thickness before coating. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy. -
Seasoning Variations:
Feel free to customize the seasoning in the cracker crumbs. Add a pinch of paprika for some color, or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. -
Use a Wire Rack:
For an even crispier finish, place a wire rack inside your baking dish. This elevates the chicken, allowing air to circulate around it, which helps the coating stay crispy. -
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Ensure that the chicken breasts are not touching each other in the baking dish. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent the coating from getting crispy. -
Let the Butter Melt Evenly:
Cut the butter into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure it melts uniformly over the chicken, helping to crisp the coating and add rich flavor. -
Resting the Chicken:
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
FAQs About Crispy Butter Chicken
Q1: Can I use other types of crackers for the coating?
A1: Yes, you can experiment with different crackers or even breadcrumbs for the coating. Ritz crackers add a buttery flavor, but other crackers like saltines or panko breadcrumbs can also work well.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness. However, you can prepare the chicken by coating it ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking.
Q3: What should I do if I don’t have garlic salt?
A3: If you don’t have garlic salt, you can use a combination of garlic powder and regular salt. Start with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Q4: How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
A4: The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife.
Q5: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A5: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Just be aware that thighs may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Q7: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A7: Absolutely! Simply substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of this dish.
Q8: What sides go well with Crispy Butter Chicken?
A8: This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even a light pasta dish.
Conclusion
Crispy Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to try out the tips and enjoy the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked Crispy Butter Chicken!