The Baked Crispy Chicken is a dish that embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals, perfect for family dinners, friend reunions, or simple evening meals. Its secret lies in its simplicity and adaptability, offering a delightful combination of a crispy exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside. This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for many families.
Ingredients for Baked Crispy Chicken
2 pounds of chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts
2 sleeves of Ritz crackers
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup whole milk
3 cups grated cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon dried parsley
For the Sauce:
1 can (10 ounces) cream of chicken soup
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
If using chicken breasts, cut each breast into three large pieces.
2. Prepare the Cracker Coating:
Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs.
Set up three shallow pans: one with milk, one with grated cheddar cheese, and one with the cracker crumbs mixed with salt and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each piece of chicken into the milk, then into the grated cheese, pressing gently to help the cheese stick, and finally into the cracker crumbs, coating well.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle dried parsley over the top for added flavor.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce by combining the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a small saucepan.
Heat over medium heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and warm.
6. Serve:
Serve the chicken hot, drizzling the creamy sauce over the top.
Healthier Options
Whole Wheat Crackers: Substitute Ritz crackers with whole wheat crackers for a healthier option.
Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheddar cheese or a mix of different low-fat cheeses.
Skim Milk: Replace whole milk with skim milk.
Gluten-Free:
Gluten-Free Crackers: Use gluten-free crackers to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free:
Almond Milk: Substitute almond milk for regular milk.
Dairy-Free Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Spicy Variation:
Spicy Crackers: Use spicy flavored crackers like cayenne-flavored ones.
Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce before dipping the chicken in milk.
Herb and Garlic Variation:
Herb Mixture: Combine minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cracker crumbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful side.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf pairs well with the rich chicken.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Storing and Reheating
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the chicken less crispy.
Conclusion
Baked Crispy Chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that meets various dietary preferences, from gluten-free to spicy or dairy-free options. Its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich creamy sauce make it a family favorite that can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a fully satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the pleasure of cooking and sharing this delightful meal with your loved ones!
baked crispy chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken tenders or 4 large chicken breasts
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For the Sauce:
- 1 can 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using chicken breasts, cut each breast into three large pieces.
- Prepare the Cracker Coating: Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. Prepare three shallow pans: one with milk, one with grated cheddar cheese, and one with the cracker crumbs mixed with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the milk, then into the grated cheese, pressing gently, and finally into the cracker crumbs, coating well.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle dried parsley on top. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter. Heat over medium until smooth and warm.
- Serve: Serve the chicken hot, drizzling the creamy sauce over the top.
