This Ritz Cracker Chicken is simple to make yet loaded with rich, comforting flavor. Tender chicken bakes beneath a creamy sauce and buttery cracker topping, making it easy enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough for special gatherings.
The first time I made this baked chicken with Ritz crackers, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so good. The creamy soup mixture keeps the chicken juicy, while the crushed Ritz crackers add the perfect crunch. It's the kind of recipe that makes everyone eager to sit down and dig in, no matter how many times you make it.
Looking for more simple chicken dinners? You'll love our salsa chicken and chicken and gravy recipes.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Family-approved: Even the pickiest eaters can't resist chicken with Ritz crackers; it's a crispy, creamy dinner everyone gets excited for. For another family-friendly recipe, try our ground turkey sloppy joes.
- Simple prep, big flavor: This Ritz cracker chicken recipe comes together with minimal effort but delivers tender chicken and a buttery, crispy topping everyone loves.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Made with everyday items like soups and crackers, it's a comfort meal that won't stretch your grocery bill.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it's a cozy weeknight meal or something to share with guests, this Ritz cracker baked chicken is sure to be enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture. If they're thick, slice them in half lengthwise so they cook evenly and stay tender.
- Cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soup: These canned soups create a savory, velvety sauce that keeps the chicken moist as it bakes.
- Ritz crackers: The star of the dish! Crush them lightly so there's still some texture; they bake into a buttery, crispy topping. For more ideas using Ritz crackers, check out our Ritz cracker chicken casserole.
- Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning adds depth and savory flavor throughout.
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Cheese Crunch: Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella with the cracker crumbs to create a melty, cheesy topping that adds extra richness. For another chicken dish packed with cheese, try our cheesy chicken alfredo lasagna next.
- Herb Twist: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the cracker topping for a fragrant, flavorful touch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce or a teaspoon of chili powder to the soup mixture for a zesty twist. Alternatively, use Hot Honey Ritz Crackers for a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sauteed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce for added texture and nutrition.
How to Make This Ritz Chicken Recipe
This ritzy chicken recipe is creamy, comforting, and topped with a crispy, buttery crust. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish so the chicken won't stick.
- Step 1: Mix the sauce. Combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings, and mix until smooth.
- Step 2: Coat the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish and pour the creamy sauce evenly over them.
- Step 3: Add the topping. Mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, and then sprinkle them over the chicken.
- Step 4: Bake and finish. Bake for 50-60 minutes until bubbly, then broil for 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy topping.
Expert Tips
- Choose Even Chicken Pieces: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are similar in size for even cooking. Slice thicker pieces in half horizontally to keep the chicken tender.
- Prep the Sauce Ahead: Combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings a day ahead. This saves time and lets the flavors meld together.
- Perfect Crunch: Lightly crush the Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter just before topping the chicken to get a golden, crispy finish on your crispy Ritz cracker chicken.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this Ritz chicken recipe for a tasty weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Serve it over garlic mashed potatoes or rice, and add some fresh dinner rolls to help soak up the sauce.
- It's a hit at holiday meals or potlucks, where the creamy, crispy topping always draws a crowd. Pair it with some simple sides like green beans with bacon or roasted potatoes and carrots.
Ritz Chicken Recipe FAQs
Make sure to lightly crush the crackers and mix with melted butter just before baking. Avoid covering the dish while baking to maintain a crisp topping.
Yes! You can mix the sauce and layer the dish the day before or freeze it for up to 2 months. Remove the dish from refrigeration and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Add the cracker topping and then bake as directed. You may need to add 5-10 minutes, since the dish is cold. If frozen, thaw it out in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the instructions for baking.
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. They may need a few extra minutes to bake through.
More Delicious Chicken Dishes
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Ritz Cracker Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ¼ cups sour cream
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
Topping
- 1 ¼ cups Ritz crackers crushed
- ¼ cup butter melted
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup. Mix until well combined.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the sauce over the top.
- Add crushed Ritz crackers, butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to a bowl and mix until well combined. Spoon the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the topping.
- Serve over rice or mashed potatoes and enjoy!
Notes
- Select chicken breasts of similar size so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Combine the soups, sour cream, and seasonings until smooth for a creamy, flavorful base.
- Lightly crush the Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter just before adding to the chicken to ensure a golden, crunchy finish.
- After baking, broil for 2-3 minutes to make the cracker topping extra crispy and golden.
Nutrition
*All nutrition information provided is automatically calculated and is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients, brands, and changes in cooking methods listed in the recipe. If you need exact numbers on your ingredients, I would recommend calculating them with your prefered nutrition calculator.
Ryan Allen
One of my family's favorite comfort food recipes. Best part is it is so easy to make.