Slow Cooker Ritz Cracker Crusted Chicken Breast
Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy soup and sour cream base, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers that create a golden, flavorful crust. This comforting family dinner combines the convenience of set-and-forget cooking with the satisfying crunch of crackers. The creamy sauce infuses the chicken with rich flavor while the crackers provide textural contrast, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without much hands-on time.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 10 ½ oz cream of chicken soup
- 16 oz sour cream
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste(optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper, or to taste(optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, crushedgluten-free crackers1:1gluten-free
similar taste and texture
Instructions
- 1
Place chicken breast in the slow cooker
- 2
Mix cream of chicken soup and sour cream in a bowl, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder
- 3
Spread the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker
- 4
Combine melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers in a separate bowl
- 5
Add the buttered cracker mixture to the top of the chicken
- 6
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours
Tips
Crush crackers in a sealed bag with a rolling pin for even texture without making a mess
Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking before serving to allow juices to redistribute
Use thick chicken breasts for best results as thin ones may overcook and become dry
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container
Assemble ingredients in slow cooker insert night before, refrigerate, then cook next day
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles with steamed vegetables
Common Mistakes
Don't lift the lid during cooking to avoid heat loss and extended cook time
Pat chicken dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the sauce
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
similar taste and texture
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but add 1-2 hours to cooking time and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving for food safety.
What if I don't have Ritz crackers?
Substitute with crushed saltines, club crackers, or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for similar texture.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Leftovers stay fresh up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.