Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Delicious: Creamy chicken filling with a crunchy topping offers the perfect combination of textures.
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and easy steps make it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Adaptable with different meats or additional vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Pour the chicken mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the mixture over the chicken filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Variations
- Swap the Meat: Use cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken for a convenient alternative.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Replace cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers and cream of chicken soup to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works just as well with turkey.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
Try a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking.
Can I use a different soup base?
Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used for a twist in flavor.
Is there a substitute for Ritz crackers?
Use crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or any buttery cracker as an alternative.
How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Ensure the casserole is baked immediately after adding the cracker topping.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Mix extra cheese into the filling or sprinkle some on top under the cracker layer.
Is sour cream necessary?
For a similar creamy texture, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt.
Can I make this in a smaller dish?
Yes, halve the recipe for an 8×8-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its creamy chicken base and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try this simple, satisfying casserole and enjoy the warmth and flavor it brings to your table.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish topped with buttery Ritz crackers. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines simple ingredients into the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute gluten-free crackers and soup.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
