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Crispy Cheddar Chicken with Crunchy Cracker Topping

A close-up of a perfectly baked crispy cheddar chicken fillet with a crunchy, golden-brown coating.

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Make this easy, family-favorite Crispy Cheddar Chicken. Tender chicken breasts get a golden, crunchy crust made from cheddar cheese and crackers, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz-style crackers
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 3/4 inch.
  3. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Whisk the eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine the crushed crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the cracker-cheese mixture, coating both sides completely.
  5. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Pour the melted butter evenly over the tops of the coated chicken breasts.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit) and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a creamier version, mix 1/2 cup of cream of chicken soup with 1/4 cup of sour cream and spread a thin layer over the chicken before adding the cracker topping.
  • If you are interested in structured eating, consider how this recipe fits into your overall meal planning goals.
  • You can substitute Ritz crackers with crushed butter crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a slightly different texture.

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