Name: Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts; 2 sleeves Ritz crackers; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp pepper; 1/2 cup whole milk (or 2% milk substitute); 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated; 1 tsp dried parsley; 10 oz can cream of chicken soup; 2 tbsp sour cream; 2 tbsp butter

Description

Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delicious baked dish where tender chicken pieces are coated in a mixture of cheddar cheese and seasoned Ritz cracker crumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Served with a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter, this recipe offers a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 lb chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts

Coating

2 sleeves Ritz crackers
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1/2 cup whole milk (or 2% milk substitute)
3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 tsp dried parsley

Sauce

10 oz can cream of chicken soup
2 tbsp sour cream
2 tbsp butter

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. If using chicken breasts, cut each breast into three large pieces to ensure even cooking and better coating.
Set Up Coating Stations: In three separate shallow pans, pour the milk, place the grated cheddar cheese, and spread the crushed crackers. Season the cracker crumbs with salt and pepper and mix well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the milk, then press it into the grated cheddar cheese to adhere a cheesy layer, and finally coat it firmly with the seasoned cracker crumbs. Make sure the coating is even on all sides for consistent crispiness.
Arrange in Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and place the coated chicken pieces inside, spacing them evenly to allow hot air circulation and proper baking.
Season and Cover: Sprinkle dried parsley over the chicken pieces for an aromatic touch. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent drying during the initial baking phase.
Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken covered for 35 minutes to cook through and start forming the crust.
Crisp the Coating: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and the coating becomes crispy.
Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is baking, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a medium saucepan. Whisk the mixture over medium-high heat until it is heated through and smooth, creating a creamy, comforting sauce to serve alongside the chicken.

Notes

For a lower fat option, substitute whole milk with 2% or skim milk, and reduce butter to 1 tablespoon.
Using chicken tenders speeds up cooking time compared to large breast pieces.
Make sure to press the cracker crumbs firmly for a better, crunchier coating.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American