If you’re searching for a comfort food classic that never fails to impress, the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer. Creamy, savory chicken mingles perfectly with a crispy, buttery Ritz cracker topping that adds a delightful crunch in every bite. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining simple pantry staples into something spectacularly delicious. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers on taste, texture, and ease like very few recipes can.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting together the ingredients for this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is a breeze, but don’t let the simplicity fool you—each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the creamy richness to the buttery crunch, these ingredients are essential for making this dish shine.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: A great base full of protein and flavor; shredded for easy mixing and even baking.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy moisture and that classic comforting flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and a luscious texture to the casserole.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle boost of savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor complexity with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers: The star of the show for that iconic golden, buttery crust.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Coats the crackers perfectly for a crisp, rich topping.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and mild herbal freshness to finish.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
The first step is setting your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup so much easier later on. Taking a little time here sets you up perfectly for everything that follows.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, you’ll want to mix together your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir it all until smooth and fully combined. This mixture is the creamy, comforting heart of the casserole, and getting an even blend ensures delicious bites from edge to edge.
Step 3: Spread the Chicken Mixture Evenly
Transfer the creamy chicken blend into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out in an even layer. This consistency is key so that every spoonful has just the right balance of creamy filling versus the crunchy topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
Next, crush the Ritz crackers until they’re coarse crumbs — not too fine, so you retain some texture. Mix these crumbs thoroughly with the melted butter to coat each piece. This buttery cracker topping will become delightfully golden and crunchy after baking, creating the casserole’s signature crust.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Topping Over the Casserole
Evenly spread the butter-coated Ritz cracker crumbs over the surface of the chicken mixture in your baking dish. Make sure to cover the entire top so that every bite has that irresistible crisp edge.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden brown top that’s crunchy and perfectly cooked. At this point, delicious aromas will fill your kitchen and your anticipation will be at an all-time high.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Garnish
Once you take it out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly for easier scooping. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish like chopped fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of chives adds a lovely burst of green to this golden dish. It keeps the presentation inviting and adds a subtle herbal note that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with light, crisp sides such as a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans to add texture contrast and brighten the meal. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw also work beautifully alongside the creamy richness of the chicken casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets. This not only looks charming but also keeps each serving warm and crispy. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before baking for a personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly. The flavors actually blend beautifully overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed to bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions on an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until hot and the topping regains its crispness. Microwaving works too but may sacrifice some of the crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs before mixing with the other ingredients. Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but freshly cooked works just as well.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer. Homemade cream soups also work wonderfully if you want a fresher taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
While this recipe centers on chicken, you can swap in cooked mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian variation. Make sure to adjust seasonings to your liking.
Can I add cheese to this casserole?
Yes! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the chicken mixture or sprinkling on top under the crackers adds a delicious melty layer that complements the crispy topping beautifully.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe is mild and comforting, perfect for all taste buds. If you love a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. With its creamy, flavorful chicken base and that irresistible crispy topping, it’s the ultimate cozy meal that feels like a special treat every time. So go ahead, give it a try and make it a new favorite in your kitchen—you won’t regret it!
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 comforting, creamy, and crunchy baked dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with cream of chicken soup and sour cream, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers. Perfect as an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers a delightful combination of creamy filling and a crispy, golden topping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Fill Baking Dish: Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer for baking.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers into small pieces and mix them thoroughly with the melted butter to evenly coat the crumbs in butter.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the dish, creating a crunchy layer.
- Bake Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the Ritz cracker topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken to save time.
- For a lower fat version, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup.
- To add a bit more flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the chicken mixture before adding the cracker topping.
- Make sure the cracker topping is evenly coated with butter to ensure it crisps nicely.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
