Name: Ritz Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts; 0.25 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 30 pieces crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 cup); 0.25 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 2 teaspoons dried basil

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There’s something about the crispy, cheesy crunch of Ritz Parmesan Chicken that takes me back to family gatherings. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was nervous but excited. As the aroma filled the kitchen, everyone gathered around, eager to dig in. You know that moment when you pull a dish out of the oven, and the golden crust glistens? That’s what this recipe brings to the table—a perfect blend of comfort and nostalgia. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an unforgettable meal that will have your loved ones asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into the magic of preparing Ritz Parmesan Chicken!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Grater, Baking Sheet, Oven

What’s Great About This Ritz Parmesan Chicken

It’s Incredibly Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about Ritz Parmesan Chicken is how simple it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

The Crunch Factor

Every bite of Ritz Parmesan Chicken offers a delightful crunch. The crushed Ritz crackers create a crispy coating that adds texture and flavor, making it more than just your average chicken dish. It’s the kind of crunch that makes you want to take another bite.

Comfort Food at Its Best

This dish epitomizes comfort food. The combination of chicken and cheese with that crunchy coating creates a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a big hug. It’s the kind of dish that brings family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.

Versatile and Fun

Another great aspect of Ritz Parmesan Chicken is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences. Want to add more spices? Go for it! Feeling adventurous? Serve it with a unique sauce. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun dish to experiment with.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, Ritz Parmesan Chicken fits the bill perfectly. It’s delicious enough to impress guests but simple enough for a cozy night in. This dish is truly versatile and can shine on any occasion.

Kid-Friendly Appeal

If you’re cooking for little ones, this is a winner. Kids love the crispy coating and cheesy flavor, making it easy to get them excited about dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce them to cooking—let them help crush the crackers!

Recipe Ingredients for Ritz Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Ritz Parmesan Chicken, each component plays a crucial role in delivering flavor and texture. The star here is the chicken, which serves as the canvas for the crunchy, cheesy crust. The blend of mayonnaise and lemon juice not only keeps the chicken moist but also adds a hint of brightness. The crushed Ritz crackers provide an irresistible crunch, while parmesan cheese brings a savory depth to the dish. Finally, the dried basil adds a touch of earthiness to round it all out. Together, they create a delicious harmony that’s hard to resist.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main ingredient that will be the center of our dish. Boneless and skinless helps in cooking quickly and evenly.
¼ cup mayonnaise: This adds richness and moisture, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the overall flavor of the dish.
30 crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 cup): These will form a crispy coating that you’ll love with every bite.
¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a savory, cheesy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
2 teaspoons dried basil: A fragrant herb that enhances the overall flavor profile of this dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Ritz Parmesan Chicken

Getting the steps right for Ritz Parmesan Chicken is essential. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be serving a delicious meal in no time!

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step is crucial as a hot oven will help achieve that perfect crispy crust on the chicken.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy.
In another bowl, add 30 crushed Ritz crackers, ¼ cup parmesan cheese, and 2 teaspoons dried basil. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they’re well combined for an even coating.
Dredge each of the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts in the mayonnaise mixture, making sure they are well coated. This helps the cracker mixture adhere better.
Next, coat the chicken in the Ritz cracker mixture. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks well. You want a good layer of the crunchy topping!
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow air to circulate and cook evenly.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked throughout and no longer pink. This could vary slightly based on your oven; don’t hesitate to check it a bit earlier if you’re concerned.
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
Finally, serve your Ritz Parmesan Chicken hot and enjoy the delightful crunch paired with the tender chicken!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip the mayo: The mayonnaise not only adds flavor but helps keep the chicken moist throughout the cooking process.
Cracking the crackers: For an even better texture, you can use a food processor to crush the Ritz crackers into finer crumbs.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after baking for a few minutes; this helps the juices settle and enhances flavor.

How to Switch It Up

Every great recipe can benefit from a little creativity. Here are some tips to customize and elevate your Ritz Parmesan Chicken experience:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated chicken for up to 2 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Spice it up: Feel free to add some cayenne pepper or your favorite spices to the cracker mix for an extra kick.
Make it a casserole: Layer the prepared chicken in a baking dish with some vegetables and cheese for a hearty casserole dish.

Great Combinations for Ritz Parmesan Chicken

When serving Ritz Parmesan Chicken, the right combinations can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for a healthy side.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a wonderful companion, soaking up the juices from the chicken.
Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Rice: Serve alongside fluffy rice or quinoa to balance the flavors in a wholesome way.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, as it appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and enjoy it as a quick lunch option!

FAQ

Absolutely! While Ritz crackers are known for their buttery flavor and crispy texture, you can experiment with other types of crackers like saltines or even homemade breadcrumbs. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the type of cracker you use.

The best way to ensure your Ritz Parmesan Chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time. After coating it with the mayonnaise and cracker mixture, you can either refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if cooking from frozen.

A side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with Ritz Parmesan Chicken. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. Don’t forget a light dressing on the salad to enhance the flavors!

Conclusion

Ritz Parmesan Chicken is a dish that perfectly combines crispy texture with juicy, tender chicken, making it a family favorite. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try and watch as it becomes a staple in your home. Your family will thank you, and you might just find yourself making it again and again.