Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a classic American dish that’s loved by families for its simplicity and heartiness. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soup base, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping to create a delicious weeknight meal or potluck favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the next day, this dish never disappoints. Its golden topping and rich interior make it an irresistible comfort food, and it’s customizable depending on what ingredients you have on hand.
What Is Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a baked dish that typically includes cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup (or an alternative creamy base), sour cream or mayonnaise, seasonings, and a topping made from crushed Ritz crackers mixed with butter. It’s baked until hot and bubbly with a crunchy golden topping. The casserole is a popular option for busy home cooks because it comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time.
Why People Love It
- Comforting and satisfying
- Simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Customizable with vegetables or different seasonings
Main Ingredients
One of the best things about this casserole is that it uses ingredients you likely already have. Here’s a breakdown of the most common components:
- Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is the star of the dish. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
- Cream Soup: Most recipes use cream of chicken soup, but cream of mushroom or cream of celery are also common substitutions.
- Sour Cream or Mayonnaise: These ingredients add creaminess and depth of flavor to the casserole base.
- Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers form the signature buttery topping. Their slightly sweet, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the savory casserole.
- Butter: Melted butter is combined with the crackers to create that golden crust on top.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and parsley are often added for more flavor.
Basic Recipe Instructions
While variations exist, the general steps for preparing Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole are consistent. Below is a simple guide to making this delicious dish:
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
Getting the texture and flavor just right can elevate your casserole from good to great. Here are a few tips to ensure the best result:
- Use rotisserie chickenfor added flavor and convenience.
- Don’t overbake; once it’s golden on top and bubbly, it’s ready.
- Crush crackers just right– not too fine, not too chunky.
- Mix in vegetableslike peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Let it restfor a few minutes after baking to firm up for easier serving.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the great things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. Depending on your taste or what you have in your kitchen, you can customize it easily. Here are some popular variations:
Vegetable Additions
- Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Chopped spinach or kale
Cheesy Twist
- Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the chicken mixture for a cheesy base.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top before adding the crackers for a gooey crust.
Spicy Kick
- Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
Low-Carb Option
- Replace Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds or low-carb almond flour crackers.
- Use full-fat sour cream and cream cheese for keto-friendly richness.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal:
- Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.
- Mashed Potatoes: For extra comfort, serve the casserole with a scoop of mashed potatoes.
- Biscuits or Rolls: Fresh bread is perfect for soaking up every last bite.
Storage and Reheating
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole stores well, making it great for leftovers. Follow these tips for storing and reheating:
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Why Ritz Crackers Make a Difference
The use of Ritz crackers in this dish adds a unique texture and flavor that other breadcrumbs or crackers just can’t match. Their buttery richness complements the creamy chicken filling, and they crisp up beautifully when baked. This golden topping is what sets this casserole apart and keeps people coming back for more.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is more than just an easy dinner option it’s a comforting, versatile, and crowd-pleasing meal that brings people together. With a crispy, buttery topping and creamy chicken filling, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or making a dish to share with friends, this casserole fits the occasion. Plus, with its flexible ingredients and make-ahead potential, it’s a reliable go-to for any home cook looking to serve up comfort on a plate.