If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and downright irresistible dish, you have to try this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe. It perfectly balances creamy, savory chicken with a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping that will make every bite a delight. This casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug — simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to bring to gatherings where everyone will be asking for the recipe. Once you make it, it’ll quickly become a go-to comfort food superstar in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and familiar ingredients. Each component adds its own magic, from the creamy texture infused by the sour cream and soup to the crispy topping that Ritz crackers provide. Simple, pantry-friendly items come together to create a truly crave-worthy casserole.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty, protein-rich base of the casserole that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a smooth, savory creaminess that binds everything beautifully.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy richness and velvety texture to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle but essential depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild, sweet earthiness.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers: Crushed and buttery, these create the iconic golden crunchy topping.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the cracker crumbs and provides a luscious richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness when serving.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole will bake evenly without sticking, making cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is smooth and well incorporated. This mixture forms the luscious, flavorful base of your casserole.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture Evenly
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This allows the casserole to cook consistently, ensuring every bite is just as creamy and delicious as the next.
Step 4: Make the Ritz Topping
Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and mix them with the melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. This step is key to achieving that perfect crunchy, buttery crust that defines the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Top Your Casserole
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture. An even layer means the topping will bake to a beautiful golden brown and provide a satisfying textural contrast.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling around the edges and the cracker topping has turned a lovely golden brown. The baking process melts everything into a creamy, savory delight with a crispy finish.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This little pause helps it set and makes scooping easier. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like, adding just a touch of fresh color before serving.
How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives not only adds a dash of vibrant color but also a light herbal note that brightens the rich casserole. For a touch of indulgence, a light drizzle of sour cream on top works wonders too.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also complement it nicely, keeping the meal hearty yet fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on the classic casserole, try serving individual portions in ramekins topped with fresh herbs. You can also layer the chicken mixture in a clear baking dish to showcase the golden crust. Either way, your guests will be impressed by the appetizing presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and textures, making it an easy option for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, wrapping tightly, and storing it for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crunchy topping soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked chicken breast or thighs work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to shred the chicken finely so it mixes easily with the creamy base.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free crackers for the Ritz crackers and double-check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavors without gluten.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely. Adding cooked broccoli, peas, or mushrooms makes the dish more nutritious and adds some extra texture. Just fold in your veggies when mixing the chicken and creamy base.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer homemade or want a lighter option, you can make a simple cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk. This adds freshness and allows you to control the ingredients.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely and cover it tightly in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold going into the oven.
Final Thoughts
The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers comfort, flavor, and ease all in one dish. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table with little effort but huge payoff. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again — and share it with all your favorite people.
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
This comforting Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy blend of soup and sour cream, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for a quick and easy family dinner, it bakes to a bubbly, golden brown finish, offering a deliciously satisfying meal.
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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow easy serving.
- Mix Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until all ingredients are smoothly blended to form a creamy mixture.
- Spread in Dish: Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the greased baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. Mix these crumbs with the melted butter thoroughly until all cracker pieces are coated with butter, creating a flavorful and crunchy topping.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish to create a crispy crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Ensure Ritz crackers are crushed finely for an even topping.
- Add shredded cheese to the chicken mixture if desired for extra flavor.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest before serving for better slicing and flavor blending.
