Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

Have you ever craved something crispy, comforting, and utterly delightful? Well, let me introduce you to my go-to dish, the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender. This recipe has become a beloved staple in our household, and for good reason! It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of sharing a meal that brings everyone together. Picture a busy weeknight, and you want to prepare something quick yet delicious. That’s where this dish shines. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a masterpiece that has everyone asking for seconds.

Growing up, I fondly remember helping my parents in the kitchen, and one of my favorite memories was making chicken tenders. There’s something special about breading the chicken and watching it transform in the oven. The smell wafting through the house is pure magic! Now, as an adult, I carry on that tradition with the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender, giving it my own twist while keeping those nostalgic flavors alive.

Every bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the crunchy texture of the Ritz crackers. And really, who doesn’t love that combination of tender chicken and crispy coating? Whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just a cozy night in, this recipe fits every occasion. So, are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of crispy chicken tenders? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Required for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

When it comes to the ingredients for the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender, each one plays a pivotal role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players here are the tender chicken and the iconic Ritz crackers that give this dish its signature crunch. Together, they create a comfort food experience that is hard to resist.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast strips: The star of the dish. Tender and juicy, these chicken strips will soak up all the flavors from the breading.
• 35 Ritz crackers crushed into fine crumbs: These crackers provide the delightful crunch and buttery flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and a hint of color to the breading.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper: A dash of this spice brings an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 egg beaten: Acts as the binding agent for the breading, ensuring it sticks perfectly to the chicken.
• 3 tablespoons milk: Adds moisture to the egg mixture and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons butter melted: Drizzled on top before baking, it adds richness and helps achieve a golden-brown finish.

The Process for Making Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

Making the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender is not only straightforward but also quite fun! Watching everything come together is incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that when you place the chicken in, it will start cooking immediately for that nice, crispy texture.
2. Lightly grease a baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little oil to avoid sticking, allowing for easy removal of the chicken after baking.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful and crunchy coating for the chicken.
4. In a separate bowl, blend the egg and milk. Whisk until fully combined. This mixture will help the cracker crumbs adhere to the chicken.
5. Dip each piece of chicken strip into the milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crust.
6. Next, coat the dipped chicken strips in the cracker mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the crumbs stick well. You want a generous coating for that crunch.
7. Place the breaded chicken strips in the greased baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow for proper cooking.
8. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the chicken. This will give it an extra layer of flavor and help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
9. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the oven and let the chicken cook for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden and crispy.
10. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.

Recipe Tips about Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

Cooking the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender can be a delightful experience, and having some handy tips can make it even better! Below are some of my favorite suggestions that can help enhance your cooking journey.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken strips before baking. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Pairing: These chicken tenders go wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
• Alternate Coatings: Try using different types of crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a different flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard to add an extra layer of taste!

Serving Ideas for Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

Serving the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender is where the fun really begins! This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve these chicken tenders alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even BBQ sauce for a tasty addition.
• Casual Family Dinner: Pair with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting family meal that everyone will love.
• Game Day Snack: These chicken tenders make for an excellent finger food option for game day parties. Set them out with some dipping sauces for dipping!
• Lunch Box Treat: Pack some tenders in a lunch box for a fun school lunch. Add some carrot sticks and a small container of dipping sauce.
• Picnic Perfect: Take these along to a picnic. They’re easy to transport and can be enjoyed cold or warm.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted vegetables for a cozy meal. In the summer, pair with a refreshing salad for a lighter option.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender is truly a standout dish that combines simple ingredients with incredible flavor. Its crunchy texture and juicy chicken make it a favorite for meals and gatherings alike. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress anyone at your table. After all, who can resist delicious, crispy chicken? Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and the delicious meal that follows!

Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender

The ultimate comfort food, the Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Tender combines juicy chicken with a crunchy, buttery coating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast strips
• 35 Ritz crackers crushed into fine crumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 egg beaten
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons butter melted

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that when you place the chicken in, it will start cooking immediately for that nice, crispy texture.
2. Lightly grease a baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little oil to avoid sticking, allowing for easy removal of the chicken after baking.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful and crunchy coating for the chicken.
4. In a separate bowl, blend the egg and milk. Whisk until fully combined. This mixture will help the cracker crumbs adhere to the chicken.
5. Dip each piece of chicken strip into the milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crust.
6. Next, coat the dipped chicken strips in the cracker mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the crumbs stick well. You want a generous coating for that crunch.
7. Place the breaded chicken strips in the greased baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow for proper cooking.
8. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the chicken. This will give it an extra layer of flavor and help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
9. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the oven and let the chicken cook for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden and crispy.
10. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken strips before baking. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Pairing: These chicken tenders go wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
• Alternate Coatings: Try using different types of crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a different flavor and texture.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard to add an extra layer of taste!

Previous PostCreamy Artichoke Chicken Skillet

Next Post Easy Butter Chicken

Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.