Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in a creamy cheddar dream.

Looking for a dinner recipe that’s ultra-comforting, family-friendly, and guaranteed to impress? This Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken with Cheddar Cream Sauce checks all the boxes. It’s golden, buttery, full of flavor, and that velvety cheddar sauce? It’s what food dreams are made of.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you want to treat yourself without the fuss of complicated cooking.

Why This Recipe Works

Uses simple pantry ingredients
Perfectly crispy coating with buttery Ritz crackers
The chicken stays moist and tender
Rich, homemade cheddar cheese sauce adds indulgence
Kid-approved and dinner-party worthy
Easy to make in under an hour

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 sleeve (about 2 cups) Ritz crackers, finely crushed
½ cup melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 large egg
1 tbsp milk

For the Cheddar Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional for warmth)

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In one bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
In another bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the cracker mixture.
Press the crumbs onto the chicken firmly so they stick well.
Place the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top of each piece.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tip: For an extra-crunchy finish, broil the chicken during the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Make the Cheddar Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the crispy chicken and pour the warm cheddar sauce over the top—or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.

What to Serve with It

Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
Steamed green beans, broccoli, or glazed carrots
A fresh garden salad with ranch or honey mustard dressing
Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread

Tips & Variations

Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness.
Add a bit of hot sauce or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Use cheddar and Monterey Jack blend for a creamier sauce.
Make it gluten-free by using GF crackers and flour.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Cheese sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken