Name: Ritz Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (light version if preferred); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (fresh or bottled); 1 cup Crushed Ritz Crackers; 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil

If you’re looking for a dinner that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor, look no further than Ritz Parmesan Chicken. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional baked chicken, featuring a crispy, cheesy coating that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is bound to be a hit at your table.

Why I Love This Recipe

Ritz Parmesan Chicken holds a special place in my heart because of its incredible ease and versatility. The Ritz cracker coating gives the chicken a delightful crunch, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth of flavor. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare; even novice cooks can impress their family and friends with this dish. The combination of creamy mayonnaise and zesty lemon juice keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors. It’s one of those recipes that becomes a family favorite, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredient Notes

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and easy to cook, chicken breasts are the perfect base for this recipe.
Mayonnaise: This creamy ingredient helps keep the chicken moist and adds rich flavor. You can use a light version if you prefer.
Lemon Juice: Fresh or bottled, lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
Crushed Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers create a crunchy coating that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Dried Basil: A sprinkle of dried basil adds an herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.

Hardware & Gadgets

Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet is essential for laying out your chicken to bake evenly.
Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper can help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of bowls for mixing the mayonnaise mixture and the crushed crackers.
Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, a meat mallet or rolling pin can help flatten them for even cooking.

Make Ritz Parmesan Chicken: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that lovely, golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick. This step ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Stir until well blended. In another bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried basil together.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, press the chicken into the cracker mixture, covering both sides thoroughly. The goal is to have a nice, thick crust on each piece.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated chicken breasts on the sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and watch as your family devours every bite of this Ritz Parmesan Chicken!

Seasonal Spins

Herb Variations: In the spring, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a vibrant touch.
Cheese Changes: During the winter months, swap out Parmesan for a sharper cheese like aged cheddar for a cozy twist.
Vegetable Sides: In the summer, pair this dish with a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables to keep things light.
Fall Flavors: Add a dash of pumpkin spice to the cracker coating in the fall for an unexpected flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Insider Tips

For an extra crispy coating, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
If you have any leftover cracker coating, sprinkle it over roasted vegetables for an added crunch.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the cracker mixture—garlic powder or onion powder can add a lovely depth of flavor.
To save time, you can prepare the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare with this delicious dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop them back in the oven to maintain that crispy coating rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked coated chicken for up to two months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so just check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt works well for a healthier alternative. It will still keep the chicken moist while adding a tangy flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the cracker mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What sides pair well with Ritz Parmesan Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Let’s Eat

Ritz Parmesan Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the dinner table. The crunchy, cheesy coating combined with the tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dinner that’s as delightful as it is simple. Your family will thank you for this scrumptious dish, and you’ll be thrilled to add it to your regular rotation. Happy cooking!