Ritz Cracker Chicken: A Crispy, Crowd-Pleasing Recipe
The irresistible crunch of Ritz crackers combined with juicy chicken? That's the magic of Ritz Cracker Chicken! This recipe is a classic for a reason – it's easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll master this dish in no time. Let's dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust seasonings and ingredients to your taste. Here's a basic list:
- Chicken: About 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick pieces. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Ritz Crackers: One full sleeve (approximately 1 ½ cups, finely crushed). The finer the crumbs, the crispier the coating!
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten
- Seasoning: This is where you can get creative! A basic blend includes:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Optional additions: Consider adding other spices like cayenne pepper for a kick, or herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. You can even incorporate some grated Parmesan cheese into the cracker crumbs for a cheesy twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices.
2. Crush the Crackers:
- Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Alternatively, you can pulse them in a food processor until finely ground.
3. Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with the beaten eggs, one with the crushed Ritz crackers, and one for the finished breaded chicken.
- Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dredge the egg-coated chicken in the Ritz cracker crumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Repeat this process for a double-crusted effect for extra crunch!
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Pan-frying: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken immediately with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.
Tips for Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Get creative with dipping sauces: Ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce – the possibilities are endless!
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