Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking & Sautéing · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
Lightly pound chicken breasts, dredge in seasoned flour, egg, and a mixture of Ritz crackers and Parmesan before sautéing and baking.
As the leaves begin to change color and the crisp autumn air settles in here in New York City, thoughts of upcoming gatherings and family feasts fill my mind. With Thanksgiving and Christmas on the horizon, it's the perfect time to perfect a dish that can dazzle your guests without breaking a sweat. Enter Ritz Parmesan Chicken - a dish that strikes a beautiful balance between comfort food and elegance, all thanks to the delightful crunch of buttery Ritz crackers and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly combines comfort food with elegance, perfect for gatherings.
- Simple ingredients and straightforward steps yield a dish that impresses.
- The crunchy Ritz cracker crust pairs beautifully with juicy chicken.
- Flexible - can be paired with various sides for a complete meal.
- Perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make Ritz Parmesan Chicken:
Chicken and Coatings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Dredging
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Ritz Parmesan Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to prepare a delicious Ritz Parmesan Chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step ensures the oven is at the right temperature to finish cooking the chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Station
In three shallow bowls, prepare the coating. In the first, add seasoned flour. In the second, whisk the eggs until frothy. In the third bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, then dip into the egg wash, letting excess egg drip off. Press into the Ritz mixture, ensuring a generous coating of the crunchy blend.
Step 5: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, add butter and olive oil. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, you're ready to cook the chicken.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sauté for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Transfer to Oven
Once browned, place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through with juices running clear.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the chicken hot with a sprinkle of parsley and your favorite sides for a festive touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pounding step: Not ensuring even thickness can lead to dry and unevenly cooked chicken.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many pieces at once can trap steam and prevent that lovely golden crust from forming.
- Not allowing the chicken to rest: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices locked inside.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of Parmesan and mozzarella can add a delightful gooeyness.
- If you love a zesty kick, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Ritz mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before cooking - it makes the chicken incredibly tender.
Variations
- Substitute Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Use different cheese options like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.
- Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the Ritz mixture for added fragrance.
How to Serve
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
- Consider serving with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light couscous salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The chicken can be breaded a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven to regain the crunch; avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this dish as the texture may change upon reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Perfecting Ritz Parmesan Chicken taught me the importance of balancing flavors and textures. The contrast between the crispy exterior and juicy chicken is something I'll always cherish, particularly during the festive holiday season when I share it with loved ones. This dish not only fills bellies but also warms hearts - a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 25g protein · 30g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Crispy Ritz Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch.
- Set up your dredging station with seasoned flour, whisked eggs, and a mixture of Ritz crackers, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into egg, then press into the Ritz mixture.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add butter and olive oil until melted.
- Sauté the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley and your favorite sides.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier result. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best texture.
2. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers.
3. Can I prepare the Ritz Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and bread it ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just ensure it's covered to avoid drying out.
4. What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
5. How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pound the chicken to an even thickness to promote even cooking, and allow it to rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep the juices locked in.
