There’s nothing quite like a classic comfort food dinner to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table, and this Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers truly delivers. It’s an undisputed family favorite, celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and that irresistible golden, buttery crunch on top. This epic casserole masterfully combines tender, shredded chicken breast with the comforting blend of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, all crowned with a generous layer of crushed Ritz Crackers that toast to perfection. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, simple enough for a busy weeknight yet delicious enough for a special occasion.
The Ultimate Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe has earned its place as a cherished family tradition in countless homes, including ours. The magical combination of a savory chicken and cream base, enriched with sour cream, and topped with the distinctive buttery flavor and crispy texture of Ritz crackers, creates a dish that’s simply unforgettable. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary and deeply comforting.
I often prepare this casserole as part of the weekly meal kits we lovingly deliver to my husband’s mom and grandmother. I knew instantly that they would adore the combination of succulent shredded chicken, the creamy tang of sour cream, and those wonderfully buttery Ritz Crackers. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia and genuine happiness. For a complete and delightful meal, I frequently pair this casserole with complementary side dishes like a Creamed Corn Casserole and a sweet ending like a Bisquick Peach Cobbler.
Speaking of family stories and crackers, I must share a rather amusing anecdote that always comes to mind when I prepare this dish. One time, when I went to drop off the meal kits at my husband’s grandmother’s house, his mom mentioned that someone had brought them a big box of “HoHo’s” and asked if we wanted any. In my mind, I immediately pictured those delightful chocolate cake treats, and naturally, I eagerly said, “Yes, please!” Who could possibly turn down delicious HoHo chocolate cakes?
Imagine my surprise when she returned, not with chocolate treats, but with a large box of Ritz Crackers, cheerfully announcing, “Take as many HoHo’s as you like!” I genuinely thought I was being pranked and looked at my husband, John, for some explanation or support. He merely shrugged his shoulders, looking as utterly confused as I felt. I then politely asked his mom where the chocolate was, to which she replied with genuine bewilderment, “What do you mean? These are HoHo’s!” as she handed me a sleeve of Ritz Crackers. I pointed to the prominent “Ritz Crackers” name on the box, but she simply stated, “Well, I’ve always known them as HoHo’s.”
You can only imagine the mental gymnastics I was performing, trying to reconcile chocolate cakes with buttery crackers, all while attempting not to upset his mom by questioning her unique nomenclature. Now, whenever I make this incredibly creamy and delicious Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers, I can’t help but playfully tease my husband, assuring him that he doesn’t need to worry – I made it with actual crackers, not chocolate cakes. It’s a funny memory that has become intrinsically linked to this recipe, adding a layer of cherished family lore to every comforting bite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Casserole
Creating an epic Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. In fact, its beauty lies in the simplicity and accessibility of its components. Here’s a quick overview of the key ingredients that come together to form this delightful dish. The complete, printable recipe card at the bottom of this post provides all the specific measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions for your convenience.
- Shredded, Pre-Cooked Chicken: The foundation of our casserole. For ultimate flavor and tenderness, I highly recommend making Crockpot Shredded Chicken specifically for this recipe. You can easily prepare it the day before or in the morning, ensuring it’s perfectly ready to be incorporated into your casserole without any last-minute hassle. Alternatively, leftover roasted chicken or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a quick assembly.
- Ritz Crackers: The star of the topping! These iconic buttery crackers provide that unparalleled crispy, salty crust that elevates the casserole from good to truly exceptional. Their distinct flavor perfectly complements the creamy chicken base.
- Sour Cream: This is a crucial ingredient for adding a rich, tangy creaminess to the chicken mixture. It creates a smooth, velvety sauce that is both comforting and deeply satisfying.
- Butter: Melted butter is poured over the crushed Ritz crackers, ensuring they become golden brown and incredibly crispy as they bake, adding another layer of indulgence to the dish.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: A classic casserole staple, this soup base provides a foundational savory flavor and contributes significantly to the casserole’s creamy consistency. It helps bind all the ingredients together into a harmonious blend.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors. Adjust to your personal taste preferences.
Elevate Your Casserole: Additional Toppings and Mix-Ins
While the classic Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully versatile, inviting you to customize it with your favorite flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!
- Cheese: For an extra layer of cheesy goodness, sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or any other shredded cheese you adore directly into the chicken mixture before baking. You can also mix it into the Ritz cracker crumbs for a cheesy, crispy topping.
- Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and add vibrant color by incorporating some vegetables. Steamed broccoli florets, frozen peas, or finely diced carrots can be folded into the chicken mixture before baking. This is a fantastic way to get some greens into a hearty meal.
- Poppy Seeds: Some traditional versions of this casserole include poppy seeds mixed with the Ritz Cracker crumbs. While I typically omit them, if you enjoy their subtle nutty flavor and visual appeal, feel free to add a couple of tablespoons to the topping mixture.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the aromatic profile with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, basil, or thyme sprinkled over the top after baking, or even mixed into the chicken base for a deeper flavor.
- Other Additions: Consider serving this casserole over egg noodles or rice for a heartier meal. Diced onions or bell peppers can be sautéed and added to the chicken mixture for additional flavor and texture.
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Casserole Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, turning cooking from a chore into a joy. Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare your Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers efficiently and safely:
- 9×13 Casserole Dish: This generously sized baking dish is ideal for preparing this casserole. It provides ample space to spread all the ingredients evenly, ensuring uniform cooking and that perfect golden-brown crust. For those who prefer a thicker casserole with a more substantial topping on each serving, an 8×8 baking dish can also be used, though you might need to adjust baking time slightly.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your chicken, soup, and sour cream mixture thoroughly. We particularly love using a glass batter bowl with a handle, as it makes mixing easier and keeps the bowl stable on the counter.
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray: This kitchen staple is your best friend for effortless serving and cleanup. A quick spray of your baking dish before adding ingredients will prevent sticking and ensure your beautiful casserole comes out intact.
- Ziploc Bag (or similar plastic bag): For crushing the Ritz crackers, you have a couple of options. I often find it easiest to crush them by hand directly in their original sleeve. However, for a more uniform crumb or if you have some enthusiastic kitchen helpers, placing the crackers in a Ziploc bag and rolling a rolling pin over them works perfectly.
- Microwave Silicone Cover: This might seem like a small detail, but it’s a lifesaver! I swear by these lid covers for melting butter in the microwave. They effectively prevent those frustrating butter splatters and explosions that can coat the inside of your microwave, saving you a messy cleanup.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety in the kitchen is paramount. A few years ago, we had a fire scare due to a cloth potholder accidentally catching fire on a burner. Since then, we exclusively use high-quality heat-resistant silicone potholders. They provide superior protection and peace of mind when handling hot dishes.
How to Prepare Your Delicious Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Bringing this mouth-watering casserole to life is surprisingly simple, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Follow these straightforward steps for a comforting meal everyone will love. You’ll find comprehensive instructions, including precise measurements and timings, in the printable recipe card at the end of this article.
- Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly spray your 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures that your casserole won’t stick and makes serving and cleanup a breeze.
- Create the Creamy Chicken Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked, shredded chicken, the condensed cream of chicken soup, and the sour cream. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they are well-incorporated and the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Ensure all the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Carefully pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to form a consistent layer. Next, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers generously over the entire surface of the chicken mixture, creating an even, crispy blanket. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the crushed crackers. This will help them turn golden brown and delightfully crispy during baking.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole mixture is bubbly and heated through. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it! Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.
Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Casserole
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient when it comes to make-ahead options and storage. Here’s how to ensure you can enjoy this comforting dish with ease, whether you’re planning ahead or dealing with leftovers.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Instructions: This recipe is wonderfully make-ahead-friendly! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) and cover it tightly with foil or a lid, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, this chicken casserole can be frozen, either baked or unbaked. Place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly with several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. It can remain in the freezer for up to four months. When you’re ready to bake, ensure it thaws completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking to guarantee even cooking and the best texture.
Storage of Leftovers: Any leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper storage helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. If you anticipate not finishing it within this timeframe, freezing individual portions is an excellent option, as mentioned above.
How to Reheat: For individual servings, the microwave is your quickest and most efficient option. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat until warmed through, usually 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. To reheat larger portions, transfer the casserole back into a foil-covered baking dish. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until just heated through. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating can help maintain moisture if it seems a bit dry.
Recipe Variations: Tailor Your Casserole to Your Taste
One of the joys of this Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is its adaptability. Feel free to play with the ingredients to match your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand in your pantry.
Substitutions:
- Chicken Options: If Crockpot Shredded Chicken isn’t an option, don’t fret! A store-bought rotisserie chicken can be quickly shredded and used, offering a fantastic shortcut. You could also opt for canned chicken, just be sure to drain it well and consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate for any flavor loss.
- Cracker Alternatives: No Ritz crackers? No problem! Any butter cracker will work wonderfully. For a different flavor profile, try using seasoned Ritz crackers or even Chicken in a Biskit crackers. If you prefer a more traditional topping, bread crumbs or panko crumbs can be used, tossed with melted butter for crispiness. For a truly unique and salty, textured coating, you might even consider potato chips, similar to our Pringles Chicken recipe!
- Soup Base Swaps: While cream of chicken soup is standard, you can experiment with other condensed soups. Cream of chicken soup with herbs offers an enhanced flavor, or you could use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a different savory note.
- Meat Alternatives: This recipe is also forgiving if you want to swap the protein. Diced cooked turkey or ham can easily be substituted for the chicken, making it a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.
Vegetarian Option: To transform this into a vegetarian-friendly dish, replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based chicken alternative (e.g., shredded seitan, jackfruit, or a vegetarian chicken substitute). Additionally, swap the cream of chicken soup for a vegetable-based condensed soup, such as cream of potato, cream of celery, or cream of mushroom.
Vegan Option: Taking the vegetarian suggestions a step further, make this Ritz “Chicken” Casserole fully vegan by incorporating plant-based sour cream and dairy-free butter substitutes. Ensure your crackers are also vegan-friendly (some crackers contain dairy).
Gluten-Free: Achieving a gluten-free version requires careful attention to ingredients. Ritz Crackers and many condensed soups typically contain gluten. Look for certified gluten-free butter crackers and gluten-free cream of chicken soup alternatives. Always check all nutrition labels before preparing the dish to ensure it meets gluten-free requirements.
Smaller Serving Size: This recipe yields approximately six generous servings, making it perfect for a family meal. While you can scale it down for fewer servings (perhaps using an 8×8-inch dish), we often recommend making the full batch. Having delicious leftovers that can be enjoyed later in the week or frozen for a quick future meal is incredibly convenient.
Larger Group / More Servings: Easily double this recipe to feed a crowd! Prepare it in two separate 9×13-inch dishes. You can bake both at once if your oven allows, or bake one for immediate consumption and freeze the other for a convenient meal later.
Sugar-Free Considerations: This Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is naturally low in sugar, containing approximately 1 gram of sugar per serving. If you are strictly monitoring sugar intake, ensure all your chosen ingredients (especially condensed soups) have no added sugars or use low-sugar alternatives.
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Achieving casserole perfection is all about paying attention to a few key details. Follow these tips to ensure your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole turns out absolutely delicious every time:
- Accurate Oven Temperature: Always remember to preheat your oven to the specified 350°F (175°C) before placing the casserole inside. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps the Ritz cracker topping achieve that perfect golden crispness.
- Boost the Flavor Profile: If you’re looking to add an extra layer of savory depth to your Ritz Chicken Casserole, consider mixing in ½ teaspoon of onion powder and/or ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder to the chicken mixture. You can also experiment with any of your favorite poultry seasoning blends to truly make this dish your own.
- For a Creamier Texture: For an even richer and creamier chicken mixture, gently fold in about ¼ cup of softened cream cheese to the soup and sour cream mix. This creates an incredibly luxurious sauce that takes the comfort factor to the next level.
- Don’t Over-Crush the Crackers: While you want crumbs, avoid turning the Ritz crackers into fine powder. A mix of larger and smaller crumbs provides the best texture for the topping, offering both crunch and delicate flakiness.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the mixture to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and preventing it from being too runny. It also allows the flavors to further meld together.
When to Serve & What to Serve With Ritz Chicken Casserole
The versatility of Ritz Chicken Casserole makes it suitable for almost any occasion. Whether you’re in need of a quick and easy weeknight comfort food dinner using pantry staples, repurposing leftover cooked chicken, or preparing a delicious dish for a larger gathering like a potluck, this casserole is always an excellent choice. Its comforting appeal and straightforward preparation make it a go-to for many!
Delicious Side Dishes:
- Carrot Soufflé: A sweet and savory delight that contrasts beautifully with the savory casserole.
- Creamed Corn Casserole: Another rich and creamy side that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Southern Style Green Beans: A classic, tender vegetable side that adds freshness.
- Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes and Apples: A hint of sweetness and soft texture complements the main dish.
- Loaded Mashed Slow Cooker Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, packed with flavor.
- Crockpot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: A hearty potato dish for a more substantial meal.
- Crockpot Corn Pudding: Sweet and creamy, offering another comforting texture.
- Kale & Apple Potato Salad: A refreshing and healthy option to balance the richness.
Complementary Main Dishes (for a larger spread):
- Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken Stroganoff
- Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Crockpot Rosemary Pork
- Mushroom Pasta Casserole
- Crockpot Salisbury Steak
- Crockpot Swedish Meatballs
Delightful Desserts to Follow:
- Classic Rice Krispie Treats: Simple, sweet, and always a hit.
- Ambrosia Salad: A light, fruity, and creamy dessert.
- Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding: A truly indulgent and beloved classic.
- Lemon Dump Cake: Zesty and easy to prepare.
- Bisquick Peach Cobbler: A warm, fruity dessert that’s easy to make.
- Salty & Sweet Ruffles Marshmallow Treats: A fun twist on a classic treat.
Refreshing Drinks:
- Cherry Limeade
- Ocean Water
- Frosted Lemonade
- Freckled Lemonade
- Passion Tea Lemonade
More Great Dinner Recipes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed this comforting casserole, you’ll love exploring other delicious and easy dinner recipes. Here are a few more favorites to inspire your next meal:
- Southern Style Green Beans
- Pepperoni Pizza Monkey Bread
- Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
- Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Ribs
- Crockpot Cabbage Rolls
- John Wayne Casserole
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Don’t miss all of our other fantastic easy casserole recipes for more meal inspiration.
Are you a fan of delicious recipes? Be sure to explore our extensive collection of copycat recipes, tempting dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient CrockPot Recipes. There’s always something new and exciting to discover to make your cooking easier and more enjoyable!
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Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a great comfort food dinner that takes minutes to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 255 kcal
Author: Tammilee Tips
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups Shredded or cubed Chicken
- 10.5 Ounce Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1.5 sleeves Ritz Crackers (About 45-50 crackers, crushed)
- ½ cup Butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C), and spray baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded chicken in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Pour chicken mixture into baking dish. Top evenly with crushed Ritz crackers and pour melted butter over the crackers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- 9X13 Pan
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Amount Per Serving
Calories 255 (Calories from Fat 234)
% Daily Value*
Fat 26g 40%
- Saturated Fat 15g 94%
- Trans Fat 1g
Cholesterol 65mg 22%
Sodium 516mg 22%
Potassium 83mg 2%
Carbohydrates 5g 2%
- Fiber 1g 4%
- Sugar 1g 1%
Protein 2g 4%
Vitamin A 802IU 16%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 54mg 5%
Iron 1mg 6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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