If you’re craving a dish that combines irresistible crunch with cheesy goodness, look no further than this Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe. Picture tender chicken coated in a golden, crispy crust made from buttery Ritz crackers and sharp cheddar cheese, baked to perfection and served with a creamy, flavorful sauce. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that satisfies both comfort food lovers and anyone who adores bold, crunchy textures. It’s a delightful way to elevate everyday chicken into something truly memorable, and I can’t wait to share every step with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these simple ingredients together is the first step to creating a dish full of flavor, texture, and color. Each component has a special role, from the rich sharpness of cheddar to the buttery crunch of crushed Ritz crackers.
- 2 lb chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts: This is your main protein, tender and perfect for crisp coating.
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers: These will be crushed to create a buttery, crunchy crust that’s simply unbeatable.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the coating just right.
- 1/8 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle hint of warmth and depth to the coating.
- 1/2 cup whole milk (2% can substitute): Acts as the perfect dip to help the cheese and crumbs stick to the chicken.
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated: Sharp and melty, this cheese packs a punch in flavor and helps form the crispy crust.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Sprinkled on top for a touch of herbal brightness and color.
- 10 oz can cream of chicken soup: The base for a rich, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.
- 2 tbsp sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess to the sauce for extra comfort.
- 2 tbsp butter: Brings richness and silky texture to the sauce.
How to Make Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Coatings
Start by crushing the Ritz crackers into fine, buttery crumbs—this will be the star of your crispy coating. If using chicken breasts, slice each into three large pieces to ensure even cooking. Having your chicken pieces uniform helps them bake evenly and develop that perfect crust we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Set Up the Dipping Stations
Next, get three shallow pans ready: one with milk, one with grated cheddar cheese, and one with the crushed, seasoned cracker crumbs. Season the cracker crumbs lightly with salt and pepper, stirring them up to make sure every bite bursts with flavor. This layering technique guarantees each chicken piece is evenly coated with a cheesy, crispy crust.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece first into the milk, allowing it to soak up moisture, which helps the cheese stick. Then press the chicken into the cheddar cheese, coating it generously but gently so it adheres nicely. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the cracker crumbs, making sure every nook and cranny is covered in that flavorful crust.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spacing them evenly for consistent heat exposure. Sprinkle dried parsley over the top for a hint of color and herbaceous flavor. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist during the first bake stage at 400°F (200°C) for 35 minutes.
Step 5: Crisp the Crust
After the initial baking, remove the foil to reveal the golden coating, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial for that signature crispiness that makes this Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe so addicting.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken finishes baking, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, heated through, and luxuriously creamy. This sauce will add the perfect luscious contrast to the crunchy chicken.
How to Serve Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the chicken for a fresh pop of color and mild herbal notes. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can brighten the dish beautifully, balancing the richness with a zesty lift.
Side Dishes
Crispy Cheddar Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple but flavorful sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette. These sides help balance the richness of the chicken and sauce while complementing its textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the chicken on a large platter surrounded by colorful roasted vegetables such as carrots, red peppers, and zucchini. Or turn this into a hearty sandwich by placing slices of the crispy chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato, adding a smear of the creamy sauce as a decadent spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover crispy cheddar chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the coating dry helps maintain a little bit of that crispiness after reheating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Cool the cooked chicken completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents pieces from sticking together and lets you enjoy Crispy Cheddar Chicken anytime for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the chicken uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This approach helps restore the crispy crust better than microwaving, keeping the texture close to freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts or tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and richness, and they still work well with this crispy, cheesy coating. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily swap regular Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers to keep the delicious crust while making it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters. Just make sure your cheese and soup ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
While sharp cheddar is classic, you could experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for a different flavor twist. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well and has a strong flavor to complement the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe without the creamy sauce?
Yes, the crispy chicken stands fantastic on its own thanks to the cheesy, crumb coating. The sauce adds richness, but if you prefer, serve the chicken as is with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or fresh lemon wedges.
How can I make the coating extra crunchy?
Press the cracker crumbs firmly when coating the chicken and avoid overcrowding the baking pan, which can cause steaming instead of crisping. Removing the foil towards the end helps achieve that perfect golden crunch.
Final Thoughts
Making this Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe is an absolute joy, and the results are even better than you might imagine. With crunchy, cheesy goodness and a creamy touch from the sauce, it’s a comforting meal that feels special yet comes together with simple pantry staples. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to dishes for both busy weeknights and casual dinner parties alike!
Print
Crispy Cheddar Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a delightful baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a crunchy Ritz cracker and cheddar cheese crust, baked to golden perfection. It’s served with a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter for rich flavor and moisture. This hearty recipe makes for a comforting weeknight dinner that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 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 (2% milk can be substituted)
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Sauce
- 10 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and coating: If using chicken breasts, cut each breast into three large pieces. Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. Set up three shallow pans with milk in one, grated cheddar cheese in another, and seasoned cracker crumbs (with salt and pepper) in the third.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the milk first, then into the grated cheddar cheese, pressing gently so the cheese sticks. Finally, dip into the seasoned cracker crumbs, pressing firmly to get an even coating.
- Arrange for baking: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and arrange the coated chicken pieces evenly spaced inside. Sprinkle dried parsley over the chicken for added flavor.
- Bake covered: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35 minutes to cook the chicken thoroughly.
- Bake uncovered for crispiness: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Prepare the sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a medium saucepan. Whisk over medium-high heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the crispy cheddar chicken and serve with the creamy sauce spooned over or on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute 2% milk for whole milk without a significant change in taste or texture.
- Make sure the cracker crumbs are finely crushed for an even, crispy coating.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Covering the chicken during the first part of baking ensures juicy chicken, while uncovering crisps up the coating.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
