Name: Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 cups Ritz cracker crumbs or other buttery cracker crumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; 1 teaspoon parsley flakes; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup butter (sliced into 16 pieces); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional for sprinkling after baking); 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

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If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, crispy, and flavorful chicken dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress, you’re going to love this Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe. I stumbled upon this gem when I wanted something quick yet special for a weeknight dinner, and honestly, it turned into an instant favorite around my table. The buttery Ritz cracker crust paired with Parmesan and a touch of Greek yogurt keeps the chicken moist and truly delicious—a combo you might not have thought to try before.

This recipe shines when you want a cozy meal without too much fuss. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something with a little crunch but also some creamy, cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s a great one to whip up for guests because it looks so fancy but doesn’t require master chef skills. Trust me: once you try the Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe, you’ll find a new go-to that works for busy days or those special family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe plays a unique role, coming together to create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a quick shopping tip: Ritz crackers really are key for that buttery crunch, but you can substitute with other buttery cracker crumbs if you prefer.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base of the dish; choosing even-sized breasts helps them cook evenly.
Plain Greek yogurt: Acts as a moisture-locking binder for the coating and helps keep the chicken juicy throughout baking.
Ritz cracker crumbs: These add the signature buttery crunch; if you don’t have Ritz, buttery crackers crushed finely will do.
Garlic salt: Lends savory depth — garlic and salt are a classic pair that wakes up the flavor.
Seasoned salt: This blend adds complexity with a mix of herbs and spices; I love the ease it offers.
Parsley flakes: A little herbaceous freshness without overpowering the dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Both in the crust and sprinkled on top, Parmesan brings that nutty, salty hit that elevates everything.
Butter: Sliced across the chicken breasts so it melts during baking, keeping the crust golden and the meat tender.
Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish – it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor when serving.

Variations

One of the best parts about the Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often tweak the seasonings depending on what I have on hand, and I encourage you to do the same. It’s all about what flavors you’re craving.

Spicy Kick: Adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika to the cracker mixture gives the chicken a nice warmth. I like this on chilly nights when I want a little extra heat.
Herb Variations: Try swapping parsley flakes for Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for an earthier vibe. Fresh herbs really brighten things up.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buttery cracker crumbs in place of Ritz crackers if you’re avoiding gluten — it still works splendidly.
Lightened Up Version: You can swap butter for olive oil slices or brush lightly instead for a slightly lighter dish, though I do miss the richness.
Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Add some shredded mozzarella or Asiago cheese on top before baking for a melty, cheesy crown.

How to Make Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep your oven and baking dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray your 9″ x 13″ baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick and the cleanup is a breeze. I find using a glass or ceramic dish works best for even baking, but you can also use a metal one if that’s what you have.

Step 2: Mix the cracker crust

In a shallow dish, combine your cracker crumbs, garlic salt, seasoned salt, parsley flakes, and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Mixing these together beforehand ensures every bite has a balanced flavor. If your cracker crumbs are large, give them a quick pulse in a food processor to get a finer texture — it helps the crust stick better.

Step 3: Coat the chicken

Now, coat each chicken breast thoroughly with plain Greek yogurt. This step is gold because the yogurt not only keeps the chicken moist but also acts like glue for the crust to stick perfectly. Then, roll each piece in the cracker mixture, pressing gently to get a good, even coating. Arrange them side by side in the baking dish — no overlapping, so everyone cooks evenly.

Step 4: Top with butter slices

Slice your butter into small pieces — 16 slices if you want to be exact — and place two slices on top of each coated chicken breast. This extra step adds richness and helps create that unbeatable golden crust while sealing in moisture. Don’t skip it; it makes a noticeable difference.

Step 5: Bake and watch closely

Pop the chicken into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. Around the 30-minute mark, peek in to see how things are going — if the tops are browning too fast, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning while letting the chicken finish cooking through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy chicken.

Step 6: Add finishing touches

Once it’s out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top to make it look as good as it tastes. That fresh parsley adds just the right pop of color and a hint of brightness that balances the richness.

How to Serve Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe

Four uncooked chicken pieces lay side by side on a white marbled surface, each sprinkled with small bits of green herbs and coarse salt. To their right, there is a small white round bowl filled with thick white sauce. Below that, a white bowl shaped like a flower holds a small mound of yellow and white grated cheese. Beneath these, a round white plate contains several rectangular slices of pale yellow butter stacked loosely. Next to the butter plate, a white bowl with speckles holds a small pile of finely chopped green herbs. The setup is neat, with a soft natural light illuminating the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love to garnish with chopped fresh parsley because it brings life to the plate and a fresh flavor that cuts through the cheesy, buttery notes. Sometimes I’ll add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if we want a bit of zing.

Side Dishes

This chicken goes beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans, and a simple side of garlic mashed potatoes or even a crisp garden salad. When I’m in a hurry, I serve it with microwave-steamed broccoli and instant rice, and nobody complains.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try plating the chicken atop a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a vibrant pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. I’ve even served this Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe sliced thin over Caesar salad for a fun twist. Presentation is half the excitement!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend letting the chicken cool slightly before sealing the container to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to reheat, use it within that timeframe so the crust stays crispy and the chicken remains juicy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this baked chicken once or twice with success. For best results, freeze before baking or freeze leftovers wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to bring back the crispiness. Microwaving can make the crust a bit soggy, so if you use that method, try finishing the chicken under the broiler for a minute or two.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for the Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just be aware that thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content. Use the same coating and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is Greek yogurt necessary in this recipe?

Greek yogurt is very helpful because it keeps the chicken moist and helps the cracker crust adhere better. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream or mayo can be alternatives, but yogurt gives a lighter tangy flavor that works beautifully here.
How do I prevent the cracker crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to coat the chicken well and bake uncovered initially to allow crisping. Adding butter slices on top helps create a golden crust. Also, avoid covering the chicken too tightly while baking, which could trap steam and moisten the crust.
Can I make this Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken coated and ready to bake a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add the butter slices right before baking to keep them fresh. This makes dinner prep easier when you have a busy day.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Parmesan Ritz Chicken Recipe holds a special place in my recipe collection because it ticks all the boxes: ease, flavor, and that irresistible crispy crust. It’s one of those dishes I return to whenever I want a no-fuss meal that feels like a treat. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—grab those Ritz crackers and give it a try. Your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!