Crispy Cheddar Chicken

In the never-ending quest for delicious weeknight dinner options, one recipe stands out for its mouthwatering combination of simplicity and flavor: Crispy Cheddar Chicken. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, a crunchy coating, and a creamy sauce that brings it all together. Whether you’re cooking for a family or looking to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 large chicken breasts
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Sauce:

• 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 2 tbsp butter

Directions

1. Prep and Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your chicken doesn’t stick and makes clean-up easier.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut each breast into 3 large chunks. This size is perfect for ensuring that each piece cooks through evenly while remaining juicy.
3. Cracker Crumbs: Using a small food processor, grind the Ritz crackers until fine. The crumbs are a key component of that irresistible crunchy coating.
4. Dipping Stations: Pour the milk, grated cheddar cheese, and cracker crumbs into 3 separate shallow dishes. Stir the salt and pepper into the cracker crumbs for a seasoned coating.
5. Coating: Dip each piece of chicken first into the milk, then into the cheese, pressing to make sure the cheese adheres well. Finally, coat each piece in the cracker crumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crunch and flavor.
6. Bake: Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared dish and sprinkle with dried parsley for an added touch of flavor. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy.
7. Sauce Time: While the chicken bakes, prepare the creamy sauce by combining the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-high, whisking until hot and smooth.
8. Serve: Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving with the creamy sauce drizzled over the top.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: Makes 7 servings

Prep Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes (Preparation: 15 minutes, Cooking: 35 minutes)

This Crispy Cheddar Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comfort food experience that brings a touch of indulgence to your dinner table. The combination of crunchy exterior, tender chicken, and creamy sauce creates a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s a testament to the fact that with simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try tonight and watch it become an instant favorite among both kids and adults alike. Happy cooking!

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