Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that combines creamy chicken filling with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker topping. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—rich, creamy, and crunchy. It’s a dish that feels like home, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and warmth.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole:
This simple yet flavorful casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and loved by kids and adults alike. Once you make it, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite in your recipe collection.
History of Chicken Casserole:
The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole originated in mid-century American kitchens when home cooks began experimenting with pantry staples. Casseroles became popular for their convenience and ability to feed large families affordably. The use of Ritz crackers—known for their buttery texture—added a signature crunch that quickly became iconic. Over time, variations emerged with cheese, sour cream, and different soups, making it a timeless comfort classic.
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Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix chicken, soup, sour cream, and seasonings. Stir until smooth.
- Pour mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Crush Ritz crackers and combine with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the buttery crumbs over the chicken mixture.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
- Serve warm with salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavour.
- Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter texture.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving.
Tips for Ritz Cracker:
- Don’t overbake—the crackers should be crisp, not burnt.
- Use full-fat sour cream for a richer taste.
- Add shredded cheddar between layers for extra creaminess.
- Make it ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—it freezes well.
FAQs for Cracker Chicken:
Q: Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Yes, assemble it without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months.
Q: What can I serve with it?
It pairs beautifully with green beans, mashed potatoes, or a garden salad.
Q: Can I use crushed cornflakes instead of Ritz crackers?
Yes, but you’ll lose the buttery flavor Ritz provides.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers and soup for a perfect alternative.
Conclusion:
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal—creamy, crispy, and full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a cozy dinner idea, this casserole delivers satisfaction every single time. The rich, buttery cracker topping and tender chicken filling make it a timeless favorite that never disappoints.