Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

When it comes to easy comfort food, it doesn’t get much better than this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and topped with a buttery golden cracker crust that brings everything together. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a warm and filling dish the whole family will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple to Make – Just mix, layer, and bake with ingredients you probably already have.
Crowd-Pleaser – Classic comfort food flavor that everyone enjoys.
Quick Weeknight Meal – Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
Freezer Friendly – Make it ahead and bake when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole Filling:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cracker Topping:

• 1½ sleeves Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers), crushed
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard for extra depth
• ½ cup cooked rice for a more filling dish

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Foil (optional, for baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
If you’re adding any optional vegetables or rice, fold them in now.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.

Step 4: Make the Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until all crumbs are coated.
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
Press down gently to help it stick and form a crunchy crust.

Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Sprinkle with dried parsley for a fresh finish.

Tips for Best Results
Use Rotisserie Chicken – Adds flavor and cuts down on prep time.
Crush Crackers Evenly – Use a zip-top bag and rolling pin for consistent crumb size.
Add a Touch of Heat – Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Keep It Creamy – Don’t overbake or the casserole may dry out.
Make Individual Servings – Use ramekins for personal-size casseroles and quick reheating.

Serving Suggestions
Steamed Green Beans – A light and crisp side to balance the creamy casserole.
Mixed Greens Salad – Fresh and tangy with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Buttered Corn – Simple and classic pairing.
Mashed Potatoes – Double the comfort with this hearty combination.
Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up every bit of creamy filling.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Let cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned chicken?
   Yes! Just drain it well and shred before adding to the filling.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Definitely. Assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking.
3. Can I substitute the soup?
   Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery works great too.
4. Is there a low-sodium version?
   Use low-sodium broth, reduced-sodium soup, and unsalted butter to control the salt level.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time by about 10 minutes.

Final Thoughts
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s easy to make and always a hit. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery, crunchy crust—it’s the kind of recipe that warms hearts and fills bellies. Whether you’re making it for your family or bringing it to a gathering, this casserole is bound to disappear fast.

Give it a try and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share your photos and tag us for a chance to be featured!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 23g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 780mg

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