If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you’ve got to try this Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender shredded chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust that adds just the right amount of texture. This casserole is not only incredibly delicious but also a breeze to make, perfect for family dinners or when you want something that feels extra special with minimal effort. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is really straightforward, and each one plays an essential role in building the dish’s bold flavor and satisfying texture. From creamy soup and tangy sour cream to savory seasonings and the iconic Ritz cracker topping, every component works together to create that unbeatable comfort food magic.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully to save time and adds juicy flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This forms the rich, creamy base that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and moisture to keep the casserole luscious and creamy.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle yet savory warmth throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances depth and rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the best in every bite.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed: Creates that iconic, buttery, crispy topping everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Coats the cracker crumbs for a golden-brown finish with irresistible crunch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to brighten the casserole.
How to Make Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking dish and preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking and make cleanup easy. This step sets the stage for your casserole to bake evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the creamy chicken filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend is what makes your casserole so flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 3: Spread the mixture in the baking dish
Evenly spread the creamy chicken filling into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s level for consistent baking and an even layer of cheesy goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Ritz cracker topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are evenly coated. This step is key for achieving that heavenly buttery crunch that tops the casserole.
Step 5: Top the casserole and bake
Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the creamy chicken layer. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and you can see the casserole bubbling around the edges, signaling it’s perfectly cooked through.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to settle, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if you’d like a fresh, herbaceous note and a hint of color that makes this dish even more inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is lovely for a visual lift and a bright, fresh taste that contrasts beautifully with the rich creaminess. You might also try adding a dash of paprika or a few red pepper flakes if you want a little color and a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables to balance the creamy richness. If you want to keep it classic, buttered green beans or a tangy coleslaw also complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or potluck, serve this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a mini parsley sprig, or bring it to the table in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, cozy presentation that’s sure to wow your guests and keep the dish warm longer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep that crispy topping intact, it’s best to add extra cracker crumbs and butter when reheating.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method helps the casserole stay creamy inside while maintaining a nicely crisped top. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed and shredded before mixing it into the casserole to ensure even cooking and texture.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
You can swap out the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free cracker or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a similar crunchy topping without gluten worries.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding steamed broccoli, peas, or mushrooms can boost the nutrition and add extra flavor while still complementing the creamy sauce.
How do I make sure the topping stays crispy?
Make sure to mix the crackers well with melted butter and avoid adding the topping too early if you plan to refrigerate the casserole before baking. Baking it fresh also helps achieve that perfect crunch.
Can I use other types of soup instead of cream of chicken?
While cream of chicken is classic for this dish, cream of mushroom or cream of celery can add a different but still delicious flavor twist to your casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never disappoints. Its ease of preparation, comforting flavors, and irresistible topping make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole is sure to become a well-loved favorite in your home. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with a creamy blend of soup and sour cream, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Chicken and Creamy Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Spread Mixture in Dish: Evenly spread the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure it’s level.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crackers are thoroughly coated with butter.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
- For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium cream soup and adjust salt accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a handful of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking can enhance richness.
- Ensure the crackers are crushed finely for an even crust texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
