Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated (the sharper, the better!)
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (or about 1 ½ cups crushed)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but gives great flavor)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Sauce:

• 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or homemade if you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

Step 1 – Prep the coating

1. Crush the Ritz crackers until fine crumbs. Place them in a shallow bowl.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs with milk.
4. In a third bowl, place the grated cheddar cheese.

Step 2 – Coat the chicken

1. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise for thinner cutlets (cooks faster & crisps better).
2. Dip each piece in the egg wash → then roll in cheddar cheese → then press into the cracker crumbs until well coated.

• Tip: The cheese sticks best if you press it onto the chicken firmly before coating with crumbs.

1. Place coated chicken pieces into a greased 9×13 baking dish.

Step 3 – Bake

1. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the chicken to help it crisp.
2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.

• If you like extra crispy, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 4 – Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
2. Heat over medium until warm and smooth.

Step 5 – Serve

• Plate the chicken, drizzle the creamy sauce on top, and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.

Benefits of This Dish

• Cheesy comfort food – gooey, crispy, and creamy all in one.
• Family favorite – kids and adults devour it.
• Budget-friendly – uses pantry staples like Ritz crackers and soup.
• Customizable – add spices, swap cheeses, or use panko for extra crunch.

Serving Ideas

• With buttery mashed potatoes and green beans.
• Over steamed rice with the creamy sauce poured on top.
• With a crisp garden salad for balance.