Description

This comforting Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole features shredded chicken in a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers baked to a golden perfection. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together quickly and bakes in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Topping

1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
4 tablespoons butter, melted

Garnish

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix Chicken and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Spread Mixture: Evenly distribute the chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even bake.
Prepare Cracker Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and mix them thoroughly with the melted butter until all dry crumbs are coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Add Cracker Topping: Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the chicken mixture layer, ensuring full coverage for an even crisp topping.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot.

Notes

For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture.
You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for different flavor profiles.
Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Use fresh cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Ensure the Ritz crackers are crushed finely for an even crispy topping layer.