Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that has become a staple in many households, and for good reason! This comforting casserole combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy layer of buttery Ritz crackers. The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how much my family loved it. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone to the table.

The origins of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when convenience foods began to rise in popularity. This dish perfectly embodies the spirit of that era, combining simple ingredients to create something truly special. People adore this casserole not only for its rich flavor and satisfying texture but also for its convenience—perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Mix again until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chicken mixture.
4. Once everything is combined, set the bowl aside. This will allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the next steps.

Preparing the Ritz Cracker Topping

1. In a separate bowl, take your sleeve of Ritz crackers and crush them into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin or simply crushing them with your hands.
2. Once the crackers are crushed, pour in the melted butter. Stir the mixture until all the cracker crumbs are evenly coated with the butter. This will give your topping a delicious, buttery flavor and a nice crunch.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Now it’s time to assemble the casserole! Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Make sure the mixture is evenly distributed across the bottom of the dish.
3. Next, sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture over the top of the chicken mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect crunch in every bite.
4. Finally, sprinkle the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the cracker layer. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Casserole

1. Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want the casserole to be bubbly and the top to be golden brown.
2. About halfway through the baking time, I like to check on it to ensure it’s not browning too quickly. If it is, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
3. Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

1. When you’re ready to serve, scoop out portions of the casserole onto plates. I love to pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
2. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps well and can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick meal later on.

Tips and Variations

1. If you want to add some veggies to your casserole, consider mixing in some frozen peas, corn, or chopped broccoli into the chicken mixture before baking. This adds color and nutrition!
2. For a bit of a kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
3. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cream of chicken soup.
4. Feel free to experiment with different

Conclusion:

In summary, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and that irresistible buttery crunch from the Ritz crackers creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a cozy gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious recipe together! Happy cooking!

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