Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort meal that comes together with ease, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. It blends tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, flavorful sauce and a satisfyingly crunchy Ritz cracker topping that bakes up golden and irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a delightful crunch that makes every bite a pure joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, approachable ingredients—each one playing a key role in building that trademark flavor and texture. From the tender chicken to the buttery Ritz crackers, every element blends beautifully to create an unforgettable casserole.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing tender, juicy bites when cooked right.
• Crushed Ritz crackers: Adds a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that binds everything together and delivers savory richness.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the casserole to add gooey, flavorful layers of comfort.
• Milk: Lightens the soup’s texture, making the filling perfectly smooth and velvety.
• Garlic powder: Delivers subtle warmth and depth.
• Onion powder: Adds a gentle savory hint that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Seasoning salt: The secret ingredient that amplifies the entire dish’s taste with a subtle salty punch.

How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish generously to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and makes for easy serving later. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked dish.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir these ingredients until they meld into a rich, creamy mixture—this is the heart of your casserole, promising juicy, satisfying bites in every mouthful.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoning salt to your chicken mixture. Give it a good stir to blend all those cozy, warm flavors together. Taste and adjust if needed—seasoning is your ticket to a truly unforgettable casserole.

Step 4: Layer the First Crunch

Spread half of your crushed Ritz crackers evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This layer not only adds incredible flavor but also gives the casserole a sturdy, crunchy foundation that complements the creamy chicken filling.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Mixture

Pour the creamy chicken filling over the Ritz cracker base, smoothing it out carefully with a spatula. This layer is where all those savory, comforting flavors meld together—think creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and More Crackers

Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of your chicken mixture. Then, sprinkle the remaining crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese. This final topping promises a golden, bubbly crust that will have everyone digging in quickly.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is bubbly and gloriously golden brown. The smell wafting from your oven will have the whole family gathering around, eager for that first warm, cheesy bite.

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper add a bright pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor contrast to the rich casserole. A light drizzle of sour cream can also add a creamy tang that pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or soft dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties or family gatherings. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese and crackers on top halfway through baking for an even more indulgent crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The casserole holds up well, with flavors often deepening overnight—just be sure to cover it tightly to keep the cracker topping from getting soggy.

Freezing

If you want to make this delicious dish ahead of time, assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftover casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crisp again. Microwaving is possible but may soften the cracker topping, so whenever you can, stick to the oven for that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred it and proceed with the recipe as usual. It’s a fantastic time-saver.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer homemade alternatives, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth or use cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different but delicious twist.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Traditional Ritz crackers contain gluten, so this dish isn’t gluten-free as written. However, you can use gluten-free buttery crackers as a substitute to make it safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Chopped broccoli, peas, or mushrooms added into the chicken mixture can add extra flavor, color, and nutrition—just make sure to adjust cooking time if your veggies are raw.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic here because it melts well and offers bold flavor, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses if you want to experiment with different tastes and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is a shining example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly heartwarming and delicious. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s a comforting dish sure to become a cherished classic. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4 from 80 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This classic Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked dish featuring tender shredded chicken, savory cream of chicken soup, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a family-friendly recipe that combines simple ingredients into a deliciously golden and cheesy casserole.

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Ingredients

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Chicken Mixture

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp seasoning salt

Topping

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Additional crushed Ritz crackers (about ½ cup to top)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
3. Season the Mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoning salt to the chicken mixture. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasonings to your taste preference.
4. Create Base Layer: Spread half of the crushed Ritz crackers evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crunchy base layer.
5. Add Chicken Mixture: Pour the seasoned chicken mixture over the cracker base. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture, then add the remaining crushed Ritz crackers on top for a crispy crust.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• Shredded chicken can be pre-cooked by boiling or roasting before assembling the casserole.
• For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend for a different taste profile.
• Ensure the baking dish is greased well to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
• Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American