Are you craving a crispy, flavorful chicken dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Ritz cracker crusted chicken recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love. It's a simple twist on a classic, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. Forget complicated recipes; this one is straightforward and delivers incredible results. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs (finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Create the Ritz Cracker Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Place the flour in another shallow dish. Dip each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip the floured chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the Ritz cracker mixture, making sure it's evenly coated.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve this delicious dish with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra crispy chicken, use a combination of panko bread crumbs and Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. This will ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture.
- For a healthier option, bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Ritz Cracker Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the breading mixture, along with your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Spicy Ritz Cracker Chicken: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the breading for a fiery kick.
- Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese to 1 cup for an extra cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Ritz cracker crusted chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy homemade cooking. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meal options. Enjoy!