Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe

ltimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than Crispy Cheddar Chicken. This dish is the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make and requires just a handful of pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and Cheesy – The combination of cheddar cheese and Ritz cracker crumbs creates the ultimate crunchy coating.
  • Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the crispy texture and cheesy flavor.
  • Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish is great for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile – Serve it with a variety of sides to customize your meal.

Who is This Recipe For?

This recipe is for anyone who enjoys comfort food with a crispy twist. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal, a beginner home cook, or someone craving a cheesy, crunchy chicken dish, this recipe is perfect for you. It’s also a great way to elevate simple chicken breasts into something truly special.

Ingredients for Crispy Cheddar Chicken

For the Chicken:

  • 4 large chicken breasts
  • 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed into crumbs
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup milk
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 2 tbsp butter

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Measuring spoons
  • Whisk
  • Medium saucepan
  • Aluminum foil

How to Make Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut each chicken breast into three equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Stations

Prepare three shallow bowls:

  1. Add milk to the first bowl.
  2. Place grated cheddar cheese in the second bowl.
  3. Mix crushed Ritz crackers with salt and black pepper in the third bowl.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the milk, coat it with shredded cheddar cheese, and then press it into the cracker mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the breaded chicken pieces onto the prepared baking pan.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle dried parsley over the chicken. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

While the chicken bakes, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat until smooth and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the crispy cheddar chicken from the oven and serve it hot with the creamy sauce drizzled on top. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Double Coating – For an extra-crispy texture, dip the chicken in the milk and cheese twice before coating with the cracker crumbs.
  • Use Panko – Substitute Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
  • Spice it Up – Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Variations – Try using a mix of cheddar and Parmesan for a deeper cheesy taste.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

  • Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • For a quicker option, microwave for 1-2 minutes, but note that the coating may not stay as crispy.

What to Serve with Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Side Dish Ideas

  • Mashed Potatoes – The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes.
  • Steamed Vegetables – Balance out the richness with green beans, broccoli, or carrots.
  • Rice Pilaf – A great way to soak up the delicious sauce.

Beverage Pairings

  • White Wine – A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the cheesy, crispy texture.
  • Lemonade or Iced Tea – Perfect for a casual, comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Absolutely! Try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.

Is There a Gluten-Free Option?

Yes! Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz and ensure your soup is gluten-free.

Can I Make This in an Air Fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try.

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