Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Crunchy Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! This easy-to-make dish combines tender shredded chicken, a creamy and cheesy sauce, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that delivers the perfect crunch with every bite. Whether you’re making dinner for a busy weeknight, a potluck, or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly simple and budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dish that is packed with flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Let’s dive into how to make this rich, creamy, and cheesy chicken casserole with Ritz crackers!

Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Quick & Easy: Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Comforting & Hearty: Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for busy nights.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

2. Make the Ritz Cracker Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and mix until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.

3. Bake the Casserole

1. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with dried parsley if desired and serve hot!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with these delicious sides:

• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
• Garden Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Rice or Mashed Potatoes – For an extra hearty meal.
• Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce!

Tips & Variations

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – Save time by using store-bought cooked chicken.
• Swap the Soup – Try cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
• Add Vegetables – Peas, carrots, or spinach can be mixed into the casserole.
• Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Try Different Cheeses – Mix in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.

FAQs About Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-60 minutes.

3. What type of chicken works best?

Shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover roasted chicken all work great for this recipe.

4. Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?

Yes! If you don’t have Ritz crackers, substitute with buttery club crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or in the microwave.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and buttery Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole to bring comfort to your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a winner every time. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and crispy topping, it’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Try this easy and delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe today and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Happy cooking!

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