Looking for a dinner that hits the sweet spot between comfort food and crowd-pleaser? This Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce might just be your new favorite. It’s crispy, cheesy, and creamy all at once — a true midweek masterpiece. Roasted vegetable-flavored Ritz crackers add an herby depth that takes this dish up a notch, while the velvety cheddar cream sauce ensures every bite is decadently satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Garlic pepper, to taste
For the Cheddar Cream Sauce:
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures your chicken won’t stick and stays crispy.
2. Prepare the Coating Station
Set up your dipping station in three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Beat the egg with 1/4 cup milk.
- Dish 2: Pour in the crushed Ritz crackers.
- Dish 3: Spread out the shredded cheddar cheese.
Tip: Make sure your chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning with salt and garlic pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken
One by one, coat each chicken breast:
- Dip into the egg mixture first.
- Press into the cheddar cheese, making sure the cheese adheres well.
- Then coat with crushed crackers, pressing gently to make sure each piece is fully covered.
Arrange the coated chicken breasts on your prepared baking pan.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crunchy.
Tip: For an extra crispy crust, you can lightly spray the tops with cooking oil spray before baking.
5. Make the Cheddar Cream Sauce
While the chicken is baking, start on the sauce:
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, 1/4 cup milk, and sour cream.
- Whisk gently until the sauce is heated through and smooth.
Optional: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor punch.
6. Serve It Up
Once the chicken is out of the oven, plate each breast and drizzle generously with the warm, creamy cheddar sauce. Sprinkle with a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Pair it with:
- Mashed potatoes for classic comfort.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli for a pop of freshness.
- A simple side salad to balance the richness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the cheese layer before the crackers — it helps glue the coating and adds amazing flavor.
- Use room-temperature chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Crush crackers finely so they stick well and create a smoother coating.
- Make ahead tip: You can coat the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely. While Ritz Roasted Vegetable crackers add great flavor, plain Ritz, Club crackers, or even seasoned panko breadcrumbs also work well.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup, though the flavor will change slightly.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free cream soup alternative.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Place chicken in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Reheat sauce separately in a saucepan or microwave, stirring frequently.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! You can bread the chicken up to 8 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake fresh and make the sauce just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and classic — perfect for soaking up sauce |
| Garlic Green Beans | Crisp, fresh balance to the rich chicken |
| Caesar Salad | A crunchy and tangy side for contrast |
| Roasted Carrots | Natural sweetness pairs well with cheddar sauce |
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce is comfort food at its finest. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner but fancy enough to serve to guests. The contrast between the crispy cracker crust and the smooth, savory sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds — and asking for the recipe!
So next time you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and comforting, pull out this recipe and enjoy the magic of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way.
Bon appétit!