If you are looking for a comforting dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious, let me introduce you to the magic of the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe. This crowd-pleaser features tender shredded chicken baked in a creamy, savory sauce topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers that turn golden and crispy in the oven. It’s a beautiful harmony of smooth textures and crunchy topping, making it the perfect cozy dinner or potluck favorite that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is what makes this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights and casual family meals. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy base to the flavorful seasoning and that signature buttery cracker topping that seals the deal.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken to save time while ensuring a tender, protein-packed base.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This classic soup brings rich flavor and creaminess that binds the casserole together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tangy moisture, balancing the savory elements for a luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle burst of garlicky goodness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile, deepening the flavor complexity.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers: The star of the topping, these crackers get crushed and coated in butter for a golden, crispy finish.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Butter adds richness and helps the crackers brown beautifully during baking.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh pop of color and mild herbal flavor to brighten each serving.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which allows your casserole to cook evenly and become perfectly bubbly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly — this crucial step prevents sticking and helps with easy serving after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is smoothly blended together, creating a creamy mixture that will be the heart of your casserole. This simple mix ensures each bite has a consistent, savory richness.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture Evenly
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly across the greased baking dish. An even layer guarantees that the casserole cooks uniformly and makes the most of the luscious flavors in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
Crush the entire sleeve of Ritz crackers into fine crumbs — the finer, the better for an even crust. Mix these crumbs with the melted butter so each little piece is coated with a rich, buttery sheen. This coating is key to creating that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken base, spreading to cover the entire surface. Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch as the topping turns a stunning golden brown and the filling bubbles with warmth — a sure sign your dish is ready.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set. This allows it to firm up just slightly for perfect, clean servings. Finish by sprinkling with chopped parsley for a fresh, inviting pop of color before serving hot.
How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds vibrant green contrast but also a light herbal touch that cuts through the richness. For a little extra flair, consider grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped green onions for mild oniony crunch.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli and green beans, which add a refreshing balance. For something more indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles complement the creamy texture perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to dress up your presentation? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, add a layer of sliced tomatoes or cooked mushrooms beneath the chicken mixture for an extra depth of flavor and an eye-catching colorful layer inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it great for easy next-day meals without losing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container before baking. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly. To keep the cracker topping crisp, avoid covering the casserole while reheating in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of freshly cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken works well in this casserole and makes the prep even quicker. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes. You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, homemade béchamel sauce can be a richer, fresher option.
What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
You can substitute with any buttery cracker like saltines or buttery bread crumbs. The key is to use something that will crisp up nicely and complement the savory filling.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped cooked broccoli, mushrooms, or peas can be stirred into the chicken mixture before baking for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional Ritz crackers contain gluten, but you can find gluten-free buttery crackers or make your own cracker crumbs to keep this recipe gluten-free while maintaining the delicious topping.
Final Thoughts
The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is truly a gem when you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, yet comes together with minimal fuss. Its creamy, comforting nature and addictive crunchy topping make it a family favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to recipe for busy nights or special gatherings!
Print
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with a rich combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, seasoned with garlic and onion powders, and topped with a buttery crushed Ritz cracker crust for a delightful crunch. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying savory flavor with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir the mixture well until it becomes smooth and uniformly mixed.
- Spread Mixture: Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a smooth layer.
- Prepare Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers thoroughly and mix them with the melted butter until all cracker pieces are evenly coated.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken casserole layer, covering it completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping has turned a golden brown color.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the chicken mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute gluten-free crackers for Ritz crackers.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Ensure the chicken used is fully cooked and shredded before using in the recipe.
