Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a fantastic dish that brings comfort food to the forefront of your dinner table. It’s easy to make and requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as a potluck dish. With its creamy texture and crunchy cracker topping, it’s sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults.

How to Make Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, and milk. Mix until well combined.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until combined.
  6. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting casserole!

How to Serve Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Serve this casserole hot out of the oven, right into warm bowls. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, making for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own, savoring each creamy, crunchy bite.

How to Store Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to Make Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor and quicker prep time.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique twist.
  • For extra flavor, add some chopped vegetables like celery or onion to the chicken mixture.

Variation

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas to the chicken mixture for added nutrition. This adds color and enhances the dish’s flavor. You can also use gluten-free crackers if dietary restrictions are a concern.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes! While cream of chicken soup is traditional, you can experiment with cream of mushroom or another cream soup for a different flavor profile.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories. Adding more veggies can also make it healthier.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

A comforting casserole featuring a creamy chicken filling topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup Can substitute with cream of mushroom or other cream soups.
  • 1 cup sour cream May substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or your choice of cheese.
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed Can use gluten-free crackers as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, and milk. Mix until well combined.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Topping
  1. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until combined.
  2. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.