Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! Imagine perfectly golden, incredibly crispy chicken that's packed with flavor and takes just minutes to prepare. Cathy's Cracker Crumb Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that combines the satisfying crunch of saltine crackers with tender, juicy chicken breasts. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the cracker crumb coating adhere better.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine crushed saltine crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Melt the butter in a separate shallow dish. Ensure it's slightly cooled to avoid burning when dipping chicken.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the melted butter, coating all sides completely. Allow excess butter to drip off.
- Immediately roll the butter-coated chicken in the cracker crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating covers the entire surface of the chicken.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crumb coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for added freshness.
Tips
- Pat the chicken completely dry before coating to ensure the crumb mixture sticks perfectly.
- Use fresh, crisp saltine crackers for the best texture and flavor.
- Press the cracker crumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches exactly 165°F for food safety.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it moist and juicy.
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like dried parsley or thyme to the cracker crumb mixture.
- If you want an extra crispy coating, you can briefly broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, as the coating can soften if left sitting too long.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 442kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
