Description
Crispy Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, family-friendly dish featuring tender chicken coated in a cheesy, crunchy cracker crust and optionally topped with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Baked or air-fried, this dish brings satisfying texture and cheesy goodness to every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
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1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (or buttery crackers)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/2 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
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2 eggs
For the Creamy Sauce (optional):
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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2 tbsp sour cream
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2 tbsp butter
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Optional: 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin the sauce, if needed)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
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Prep the Chicken:
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Cut chicken into even pieces if needed.
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Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Coat the Chicken:
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In a bowl, beat eggs. In another bowl, mix crushed crackers, cheddar, and seasonings.
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Dip chicken into sour cream or mayo, then into eggs, then press into the cracker-cheese mixture to coat.
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Bake the Chicken:
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Arrange coated chicken in the baking dish.
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Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
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Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
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Make the Sauce (optional):
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In a small saucepan, mix soup, sour cream, and butter.
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Heat on medium, stirring until smooth. Add milk if needed to thin.
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Spoon over baked chicken before serving.
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Notes
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Use panko, cornflakes, or potato chips as a crunchy alternative to crackers.
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Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
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Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.
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Sauce is optional—chicken is flavorful and crispy on its own.
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Prep ahead by coating the chicken and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American