If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in a snap, look no further than this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. With its creamy, cheesy layers and golden, buttery cracker topping, every bite delivers pure homespun nostalgia. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight supper or you’re feeding a hungry group, this casserole brings everyone to the table with smiles (and second helpings nearly guaranteed!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole has a delicious role to play, coming together to create a dish that’s so much greater than the sum of its parts. From the tender chicken to the iconic buttery topping, these staples are all you need for a comforting meal in minutes.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken is ideal here, making prep a breeze and ensuring every forkful is packed with protein.
- Cream of chicken soup: This pantry classic adds creaminess and savory depth; you can also swap for cream of mushroom soup if you love a little earthy flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds extra richness and a touch of tang that balances out the casserole beautifully.
- Garlic powder: Infuses gentle garlicky warmth throughout the casserole without overpowering other flavors.
- Onion powder: Gives a fragrant base note, making the filling irresistibly savory.
- Black pepper: Adds just a hint of background spice to brighten up the whole dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, both inside the casserole and on top for that cheesy finish everyone loves.
- Crushed Ritz crackers: The real star of the show; their buttery crunch on top completes the iconic texture.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Coats the crackers for that golden, irresistible topping.
- Optional chopped parsley: Sprinkled over the finished casserole, it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A quick spritz of nonstick spray or a thin coating of butter will keep cleanup easy and ensure perfect slices.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Chicken Mixture
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, both cans of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and just half the shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup). Stir everything together until the mixture looks luscious and evenly blended—you’re after that signature creamy center!
Step 3: Spread the Filling in the Baking Dish
Pour your chicken mixture into the greased baking dish, then use a spatula to spread it out in an even layer. This ensures every bite is equally creamy and satisfying.
Step 4: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
Take your crushed Ritz crackers—about 1 sleeve’s worth (1 1/2 cups)—and mix them in a small bowl with melted unsalted butter. Stir until every crumb is glistening with butter; this step is what creates that crave-worthy golden crunch!
Step 5: Add the Topping and More Cheese
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling, then top it off with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. This double-cheese approach gives you a gooey layer under the crisp topping.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your casserole, uncovered, into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden. That unmistakable aroma means it’s almost time to dig in.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like a fresh, colorful finish!
How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
A lively sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is the simplest way to add color and freshness to your casserole. You could also try snipped chives or even a dash of paprika for a pop of color and a gentle kick. The key is to highlight all those cozy flavors and give every plate a little eye-catching flair.
Side Dishes
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with an array of sides. Try it with steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or classic mashed potatoes to soak up that dreamy filling. Some warm biscuits or buttery rolls on the side turn it into the ultimate comfort dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or potluck, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a fun twist—everyone gets their own golden, bubbly portion. Or, scoop the casserole into hollowed-out baked potatoes for a clever, hearty main dish. A little garnish on each serving lets you transform this classic into something worthy of a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just cover the cooled baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing its comforting flavor.
Freezing
You can easily freeze this casserole for busy nights! Assemble everything as described but hold off on baking. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes (cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly).
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover portions in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly—usually about 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too; just use short bursts so the crackers don’t lose all their toastiness.
FAQs
Can I make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for prepping on Sunday and enjoying a stress-free weeknight dinner.
Can I use a different type Main Course
Sure thing! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a milder flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well to maintain the creamy texture.
Is there a gluten-free version?
You can! Swap the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free buttery cracker and use gluten-free cream soup. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comfort classic.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
Any cooked chicken works—rotisserie, poached, or even grilled leftovers. Rotisserie chicken is quick and flavorful, but if you’re cooking from scratch, simply boil or roast boneless, skinless chicken breasts until tender, then shred.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Stir in a cup or two of cooked broccoli, peas, or mixed veggies before baking for an easy boost of nutrition and color. Just keep in mind that adding extra veggies may slightly increase the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, serving Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is about more than a great meal—it’s about comfort, connection, and a little bit of nostalgic joy straight from your oven. I can’t wait for you to make this tried-and-true favorite part of your own cozy dinner rotation!
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Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, a creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping come together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and 1 cup cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until coated. Sprinkle this cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture, then top with the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken for a different flavor.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
