Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce: A Comforting Twist You’ll Crave

When you’re ready to take your weeknight chicken to a new level, Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce hits every note—crispy, buttery, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing main dish that feels comforting and indulgent, without being complicated.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Ritz Cracker Chicken

• You want a quick and easy chicken recipe that’s anything but boring.
• You’re after crispy, juicy chicken—no deep-frying required.
• You love a good cheese sauce, especially one that’s creamy, flavorful, and never gloopy.

By coating chicken in buttery crushed Ritz crackers and topping it with a silky cheddar sauce, you combine classic comfort food elements into one irresistible dish.

The Problem: Boring Chicken and Bland Sauces

If plain baked chicken or bland canned sauces have you uninspired, you’re not alone. Here’s what this recipe fixes:

• Juicy chicken that doesn’t dry out in the oven
• Crunch that lasts with every bite
• A cheddar cream sauce that’s rich and balanced—not overpowering

What You’ll Need for Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Ingredients for the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers)
• ¼ cup melted butter or margarine
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (optional, for extra adhesion)

Ingredients for the Cheddar Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all‑purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step: How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. Crush Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and mix with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Melt the butter and toss it with the crumbs.
4. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dip in beaten egg if using, then coat thoroughly in cracker crumbs.
5. Place on baking sheet. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and internal temp reaches 74°C (165°F).
6. Broil briefly for added crunch, if desired.

Making the Cheddar Cream Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese until smooth.
5. Season with mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Keep warm off heat until ready to serve.

How to Serve It

• Let chicken rest a few minutes before slicing.
• Drizzle warm cheddar sauce over each piece or serve on the side.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple garden salad.

Why This Recipe Works

• Two perfect textures: crispy chicken meets velvety cheese.
• No deep-frying: baked for ease and less mess.
• Kid- and adult-approved: familiar flavors, elevated.
• Customizable: swap cheeses or protein based on what you have.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray—airflow = crispiness.
• If sauce thickens too much, whisk in warm milk to loosen it.
• Want a spicy twist? Add cayenne or jalapeños to the sauce.

FAQs About Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free crackers or use crushed pork rinds and almond flour for a low-carb option.

Can I use the air fryer?

Definitely. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make it ahead?

Cook the chicken and store separately from the sauce. Reheat chicken in the oven and sauce on the stovetop.

What if the sauce separates?

Whisk in warm milk and remove from heat sooner. Use freshly shredded cheese—not prepackaged slices.

Can I mix up the flavors?

Yes! Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or even add herbs or paprika to the cracker mix.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce delivers on both taste and texture with minimal effort. Whether it’s a casual Tuesday dinner or a meal prep favorite, this recipe will become a staple in your rotation.

Give it a try, share your take on it, and let others enjoy the crispy-cheesy comfort too!