Crispy Herb-Encrusted Chicken Breasts
Elevate your dinner game with these Crispy Herb-Encrusted Chicken Breasts! This homemade version of the popular shake-and-bake method surpasses store-bought mixes with its robust flavor and satisfying crunch. Using crushed Ritz crackers and a blend of savory spices, every bite is a delightful experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something delicious without fussing in the kitchen, this recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts that cook quickly and easily. Serve alongside your favorite vegetables or salads for a complete meal that everyone will love!
4
Servings
315
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crushed Ritz crackers
2/3 cup (Crushed)
Whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon (None)
Garlic powder
1 1/4 teaspoons (None)
Dried onion flakes
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Paprika
1/4 teaspoon (None)
Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon (None)
Granulated sugar
1 dash (None)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (Brushed on chicken)
Boneless chicken breasts
1 - 1 1/2 lbs (Cut into pieces if large)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large sealable plastic bag, combine crushed Ritz crackers, whole wheat flour, garlic powder, dried onion flakes, paprika, Italian seasoning, and granulated sugar. Seal the bag and shake until well mixed.
3
Prepare your chicken by brushing the surface with olive oil to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere.
4
One piece at a time, add the oiled chicken to the bag with the crumb mixture. Seal the bag and shake well to fully coat the chicken with the mixture.
5
Lay the coated chicken breasts in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
6
Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear, approximately 20 minutes for boneless chicken pieces.
7
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
20g
Carbs
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 to 1.5 pounds of boneless chicken breasts.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 400°F or 200°C.
What gives the chicken its crispy texture?
The crunch comes from a mixture of crushed Ritz crackers and whole wheat flour.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
The chicken typically takes approximately 20 minutes to bake until golden brown.
How many calories are in one serving of this chicken?
Each serving contains approximately 315 calories.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What spices are used for the herb-encrusted coating?
The seasoning blend includes garlic powder, dried onion flakes, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Is any sugar used in this savory recipe?
Yes, a dash of granulated sugar is included in the breading mixture.
What is used to help the crumbs adhere to the chicken?
The chicken surface is brushed with one tablespoon of olive oil before coating.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, the instructions specify using an ungreased baking sheet.
How do I ensure the chicken is evenly coated?
Place the oiled chicken in a sealable plastic bag with the crumb mixture and shake well.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 22.5 grams of protein per serving.
Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1 tablespoon of whole wheat flour.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 20 grams of fat per serving.
Should the chicken pieces overlap on the baking sheet?
No, you should lay them in a single layer ensuring they are not overlapping.
How much Ritz cracker crumbs are needed?
You will need 2/3 cup of crushed Ritz crackers.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 teaspoons of garlic powder.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What are the recommended side dishes for this meal?
It is best served alongside your favorite vegetables or salads.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is golden brown and the juices run clear.
Should I let the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it tender.
What type of onion is required?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of dried onion flakes.
Is this recipe considered family-friendly?
Yes, it is tagged as a family-friendly and easy dinner option.
How much Italian seasoning is needed?
You will need 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, with a 20-minute bake time, it is considered a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Can I use large chicken breasts?
Yes, if the breasts are large, you should cut them into smaller pieces for faster cooking.
What is the main benefit of this homemade version over store-bought mixes?
It provides a more robust flavor and a more satisfying crunch than standard shake-and-bake mixes.
How much paprika is used in the breading?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under Chicken Breast.
Does the recipe provide fiber or sugar nutritional data?
No, the fiber and sugar values are not specified in the current nutritional information.