There’s nothing quite like a crispy, cheesy, and comforting chicken dish that comes together easily for a perfect family dinner. If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal, this Ritz Cracker Chicken is the answer. With a golden crust made from crunchy Roasted Vegetable Ritz crackers and shredded cheddar cheese, every bite is packed with texture and taste. And let’s not forget the creamy sauce that takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights or even when you’re craving a homemade comfort meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy enough for beginners, but the flavors are so rich that it’ll taste like something you’d order from your favorite restaurant. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful – The combination of Ritz crackers and cheddar cheese creates a crispy, golden crust that’s full of flavor.
Simple ingredients – You probably have most of these ingredients on hand, making this a quick and easy dinner idea.
Comfort food at its best – The creamy sauce adds just the right amount of richness to balance the crispy chicken.
Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love this dish, making it a great choice for the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the step-by-step instructions, let’s go over what you’ll need to make this Ritz Cracker Chicken.

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (Roasted Vegetable flavor recommended)
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt, to taste
Garlic pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

10 oz. can cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter

How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations

To get that perfectly crispy and cheesy crust, you’ll need three separate dishes:

Egg wash – In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and 1/4 cup of milk. This helps the cheese and crackers stick to the chicken.
Cheese station – In another dish, place the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds that melty, cheesy goodness to the coating.
Cracker coating – In a third dish, add the crushed Ritz crackers. These will give the chicken its crispy, buttery crust.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and garlic pepper to enhance the flavor. Then, coat each piece of chicken by following these steps:

Dip the chicken into the egg and milk mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Press shredded cheddar cheese onto the chicken, ensuring it sticks well.
Coat the chicken with the crushed Ritz crackers, pressing gently to make sure the crust stays in place.

At this point, the chicken is fully prepped and ready to bake. The combination of cheese and crackers might seem unusual, but trust me—once it bakes up golden and crispy, you’ll be hooked.

Now that our chicken is coated in that delicious combination of cheese and Ritz crackers, it’s time to bake it to crispy, golden perfection. The key here is ensuring the crust stays crunchy while the chicken stays juicy. Plus, while the chicken is in the oven, we’ll whip up a creamy sauce that takes this dish to the next level.

Let’s get back to the kitchen and finish up this easy, comforting meal!

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts onto your greased baking pan, making sure they are evenly spaced. This allows the heat to circulate around each piece, helping the crust crisp up beautifully.

Bake in your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so keep an eye on them. The cheese may melt slightly and blend into the cracker coating, creating a flavorful crust.

How to Tell When Your Chicken is Done:

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
The crust should be golden brown and crispy.
The chicken juices should run clear when cut.

Pro Tip: If you want an even crispier crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the chicken is baking, it’s time to make the creamy sauce. This rich and savory sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, adding a smooth texture and extra flavor.

How to Make the Sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of milk to the pan.
Whisk everything together until smooth and heated through. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Once the sauce is warm and well combined, remove it from heat.

This sauce is super easy to make but adds so much flavor. You can even adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk if you prefer a thinner sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is golden brown and crispy, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

To serve, place the chicken on a plate and generously drizzle the creamy sauce over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Extra Tips for the Best Ritz Cracker Chicken:

Want extra crunch? Use an additional half sleeve of Ritz crackers for an even crispier coating.
Using plain Ritz crackers? Add a pinch of dried Italian seasoning or paprika for more flavor.
Don’t have cheddar cheese? Try using parmesan or a blend of cheeses for a different twist.
Make it spicy! Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cracker mixture for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ritz Cracker Chicken

Ritz Cracker Chicken is a simple and delicious dish, but you might have some questions before making it. Below, I’ve answered some of the most common questions to help ensure your chicken turns out crispy, flavorful, and perfect every time.

Can I use a different flavor of Ritz crackers?

Yes! While the Roasted Vegetable Ritz crackers add a great depth of flavor, you can use original, whole wheat, or even garlic butter Ritz crackers. If you’re using plain crackers, consider adding a pinch of Italian seasoning or paprika to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! If you want to prepare ahead, coat the chicken and place it on a baking sheet, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake as directed. The sauce can also be made in advance and reheated over low heat.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. The sauce can be stored separately and reheated on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Keep in mind that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Some great options include:

Mashed potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Steamed vegetables – Such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
A simple salad – For a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
Buttered noodles or rice – A great way to complete the meal.

Can I air fry Ritz Cracker Chicken instead of baking it?

Yes! To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F, place the coated chicken in the basket, and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Final Thoughts on Ritz Cracker Chicken

Ritz Cracker Chicken is one of those meals that’s easy to make but packed with incredible flavor. The crispy, cheesy crust paired with the creamy sauce makes it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! If you make any fun variations—like adding spices, using a different cheese, or trying a new cracker flavor—drop a comment and share your tips. I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own!

Ritz Cracker Chicken