Name: Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Welcome to the world of comforting casseroles with our Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! This dish is a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it an all-time favorite for family dinners or potlucks. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight recipe or someone who enjoys whipping up comforting meals for friends, this casserole is sure to impress. With a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust on top, every bite offers a delightful crunch that enhances the creamy chicken filling beneath. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily adjust it to your liking!

One of the greatest appeals of this Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something so tasty that your family will be coming back for seconds! Cooking does not get much easier than this—simply mix your ingredients, assemble, and bake! Not only is it a great meal option, but it’s also perfect for meal prep or potluck contributions, ensuring you can share the deliciousness with others.

This dish can cater to various dietary needs, making it a truly inclusive meal. Plus, it’s comforting, satisfying, and brings warmth to your dining table. So, gather your loved ones and get ready to enjoy a casserole that combines convenience, flavor, and the essence of home cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Comfort Food: The combination of creamy chicken and crispy cracker topping creates a soul-soothing dish ideal for any occasion.
Customizable: Feel free to enhance or modify the casserole with your favorite veggies or protein options.
Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to prepare your workspace and gather all necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake your casserole. A 9×13-inch baking dish is the star of this recipe, allowing for an even cook and ample space for all your delicious ingredients. If you want a quick clean-up, consider greasing the dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.

Besides the baking dish, you’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients efficiently. For the Ritz cracker topping, having a separate bowl will help keep everything organized. It’s also helpful to have a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, as well as measuring cups or spoons for precise ingredient quantities. If you’re using any additional vegetables or proteins, have a chopping board and knife handy. Being prepared will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable!

Ingredients

3 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it using butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial as it prevents the casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of cooked shredded chicken with one can of cream of chicken soup and 1 cup of sour cream. If you enjoy the flavor of onion, toss in 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion as well. Add in the garlic powder and black pepper for seasonings. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined, forming a creamy mixture that will be the base of your casserole. This will not only add moisture but also depth of flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Layer the Mixture

Once your chicken mixture is prepared, evenly spread it out in your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure that the mixture reaches the edges, providing a nice base for the crispy topping that’s about to come.

Step 4: Make the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, combine 2 sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers with 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. If you want to elevate the flavor, you can also add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Stir until it’s well mixed, and then sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture. This crunchy layer will become golden and delicious as it bakes, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy base.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Now, place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This rest time will make serving easier and allow the flavors to settle.

Variations

Protein: For a twist, swap the shredded chicken for shredded turkey, or try using cooked ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Enhance your dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or frozen peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as paprika or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor to your liking.

Cooking Notes

Using rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver.
For a tangier taste, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time; simply assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Feel free to experiment with different types of crackers for the topping—try butter or cheese-flavored for an extra kick!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy filling.

Tips

For a crunchy topping, be sure to bake until the crackers are golden brown.
When storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole is best enjoyed within 3 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
For a festive touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 385 kcal
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 610mg

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use fresh, cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked through and shredded before adding it to the casserole for the best texture.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming directly from the fridge.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables, perfect for complementing the rich flavors of the dish.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with a hearty vegetable mix or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor that everyone in the family will love. Its creamy texture and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast that elevates this dish to comfort food status. Whether you’re cooking it for a casual weeknight supper or adding it to your potluck rotation, its crowd-pleasing nature is sure to make it a favorite! Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to fit your taste preferences, and we encourage you to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. Please share your experiences with us, and let us know how it goes when you try this comforting casserole!