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Crispy Cheddar Chicken

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This Crispy Cheddar Chicken is coated in a crunchy cheddar cheese and Ritz cracker crust, then baked to golden perfection. It’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that both kids and adults will love!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved if large)
  • 1 cup sour cream (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Coating:

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed, about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 3 tbsp butter (melted, for drizzling)

For the Creamy Sauce (Optional):

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a shallow bowl, mix sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken breast into the sour cream mixture, ensuring full coverage.

Step 2: Coat with Cheddar & Crackers

  1. In another bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, and smoked paprika.
  2. Press the coated chicken into the cracker mixture, ensuring an even crust.
  3. Place the coated chicken in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

  1. Drizzle melted butter over the top of the chicken for extra crispiness.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce (Optional)

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
  2. Heat until warm and smooth, stirring occasionally.
  3. Serve over the crispy chicken for extra flavor!

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
  • Drizzle with the creamy sauce or enjoy as is!

Notes

  • Extra Crunch: Use Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Ritz crackers for a crispier crust.
  • Lighter Option: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
  • Make It Spicy: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or use spicy cheddar.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.