Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 210 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring shredded chicken baked in a creamy mixture of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers for a golden, crunchy finish. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this casserole blends savory flavors and textures that everyone will love.


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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. 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 thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer for even baking.
  4. Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, ensuring the crackers are well coated to form a crispy, golden crust.
  5. Add Topping to Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
  6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges, indicating it is hot and cooked through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken can be used as a convenient shortcut to save time.
  • For a lighter option, use reduced-fat sour cream and low-sodium cream of chicken soup.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like peas or broccoli to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.