Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Golden, crispy, and bursting with cheesy flavor, this chicken dish is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners or a simple weeknight meal!

 Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish 

Directions:

1 Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2 Prepare the coating: In one shallow bowl, place sour cream. In another, mix crushed Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3 Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the sour cream, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press into the cracker-cheese mixture. Place in the prepared baking dish.
4 Drizzle with butter: Pour melted butter evenly over the coated chicken to enhance crispiness.
5 Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
6 Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.

Chef’s Tip: For an extra kick, mix a pinch of cayenne into the cracker coating or swap cheddar with pepper jack cheese!