Remember those magical moments when Mom would pull something absolutely incredible out of the oven, and the whole house would smell like heaven?
Well, get ready to create that same kind of magic with this ridiculously good Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! It’s like a warm hug in a baking dish, topped with that buttery, crispy crunch that only Ritz crackers can deliver.
Let’s be honest – some days you just need a dish that makes everything feel right with the world, and this casserole is exactly that kind of comfort food superhero.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, bringing a dish to potluck, or just craving some serious comfort food, this casserole is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Trust me, your grandmother would totally approve!
Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Simple and Quick: Easy to assemble with common pantry ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The creamy filling and crunchy topping make this a hit with everyone.
- Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or leftovers for lunch.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
To make this delicious chicken casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (1-inch pieces): A hearty base for the casserole.
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken with herbs soup: Provides a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds richness and tang to the casserole.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a hint of savory depth.
- ⅓ cup sliced green onion: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey, cheesy goodness to the filling.
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers: Provides a buttery, crispy crust.
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Ensures the cracker topping bakes to golden perfection.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- 8×8-inch casserole dish
- Rimmed baking tray (to catch drips)
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Spatula or mixing spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place an 8×8-inch casserole dish on a rimmed baking tray to catch any drips and make cleanup easier. Lightly grease the casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken with herbs soup, sour cream, salt, and garlic powder. Stir well until smooth and fully incorporated.
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese: Gently fold in the shredded chicken and sliced green onions, ensuring the pieces are evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to break up the chicken too much. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to add a rich, melty layer of flavor.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, stir together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
6. Add the Topping: Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole filling, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
7. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. For an extra-crispy crust, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and make it easier to portion. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby for a new twist.
- Enhance the Topping: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crushed herbs to the cracker mixture for added depth.
- Check for Doneness: The casserole is ready when the edges are bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
What to Serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Pair this hearty casserole with light and fresh sides like a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans to balance its richness. For a comforting meal, mashed potatoes or warm buttered rolls make excellent choices.
If you’re looking for a little sweetness, glazed carrots or sweet potato fries are delicious additions. A tangy cucumber salad or coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast, while garlic bread or cornbread provides the perfect way to soak up every creamy bite!
Storage and Reheating Guide
Refrigerator Storage
- Cool the casserole completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
- Freeze unbaked or fully cooked casserole portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- For unbaked casseroles, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble and Refrigerate: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Assemble and Freeze: Prepare and freeze the casserole unbaked for a convenient future meal.
This casserole combines rich, comforting flavors with a delightful crunch, making it a must-try dish. Prepare it today and watch it become a family favorite!