Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with cheesy flavor—this chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And if you really want to take it up a notch, top it with a warm, creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream. It’s optional, but highly recommended.
Crispy Cheddar Chicken
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve or 30 crackers) | 1 sleeve |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | 2 tbsp |
| Butter, melted | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish) | 1 tbsp |
| Optional Sauce | |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can |
| Sour cream | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Set Up Dredging Stations:
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a second bowl, place the shredded cheddar cheese. In a third bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Pound the Chicken:
If the chicken breasts are thick, use a meat mallet to pound them to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and a perfect crispy crust.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then press it into the shredded cheddar cheese. Finish by coating it thoroughly with the seasoned cracker crumbs, pressing firmly so the coating sticks.
Arrange and Bake:
Place the coated chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Make the Optional Sauce:
While the chicken bakes, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sauce is smooth and warmed through.
Serve:
Plate the crispy cheddar chicken and, if desired, top with a generous spoonful of the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
This dish is crunchy, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you want comfort food that makes everyone happy.
