Make this family favorite Crispy Baked Cheddar Chicken for a simple, satisfying weeknight dinner. It features tender chicken breasts covered in a crunchy, cheesy cracker crust that bakes up golden brown.
Author:Sophia Collins
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for binding)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
If using Dijon mustard, lightly brush the top and sides of each chicken breast with the mustard. This helps the coating stick.
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the melted butter into the cracker mixture and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Dredge each chicken breast into the cracker mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well to all sides.
Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This recipe is a great alternative to complicated meal planning.
Notes
For an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
If you want a richer coating, substitute half of the butter with mayonnaise.
This dish pairs well with simple sides like steamed green beans or a quick salad, making it a perfect option when you are considering best meal delivery services but want to cook at home.
If you are following a keto meal plan, you can substitute the crackers with crushed pork rinds mixed with almond flour for a low-carb crunch.