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Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe for a Cozy Meal
Craving Comfort Food? This Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is Your Answer!
Are you searching for a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly comforting and surprisingly simple to prepare? In a world where finding a meal that satisfies diverse palates can feel like a challenge, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole emerges as a hero. This dish consistently ranks high in popularity for its dreamy, creamy interior and irresistibly crunchy, buttery topping. It’s the kind of meal that evokes feelings of home, warmth, and pure culinary delight. Forget complicated recipes; this version uses the convenience of rotisserie chicken and pantry staples to deliver a rich, savory casserole that your entire family will clamor for, time and time again. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Creamy, Crunchy Bliss
The beauty of this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredient list. We’re focusing on accessible items that come together to create a symphony of textures and flavors. For substitutes, feel free to adjust based on what you have on hand!
- Chicken: 3-4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breasts). The pre-cooked chicken is a huge time-saver, offering tender, flavorful meat that integrates seamlessly.
- Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve (about 35-40) Ritz crackers, crushed. These are the stars of our crunchy topping! Their buttery, salty flavor is unmatched.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted. This is key to making those Ritz crackers perfectly golden and crisp.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5 oz) can. This forms the creamy base of our casserole. Substitution: 1 (10.5 oz) can Cream of Mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup. Adds a delightful tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce. Substitution: Plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-boosted alternative.
- Milk: 1/2 cup. Helps to thin the sauce to the perfect pouring consistency. Whole milk will yield the richest flavor.
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup. Enhances the chicken flavor and adds moisture. Low-sodium is a good choice if you’re watching salt intake.
- Celery: 1/2 cup finely chopped celery. Adds a subtle crunch and aromatic depth.
- Onion: 1/4 cup finely chopped onion. Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Adjust to your taste preferences. Freshly ground black pepper offers a more pungent aroma.
- Optional: Cooked Peas or Diced Carrots: 1 cup. Adds a pop of color and extra vegetables.
Timing is Everything: Streamlined for Your Busy Schedule
Quickly shred your chicken, chop veggies, and crush crackers.
Baking until bubbly and golden brown.
An average chicken casserole can take 1+ hour, but this recipe is designed for speed.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Guide to Cozy Perfection
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first, get your oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick and will release beautifully after baking. Prepare your mise en place: ensure your chicken is shredded, your vegetables are finely chopped, and your crackers are crushed.
Step 2: Create the Savory Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and chicken broth. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, creamy sauce. Next, stir in the chopped celery, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce. This mixture is the heart of our casserole, providing a rich and flavorful foundation.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the bowl with the creamy sauce. If you’re using optional vegetables like peas or carrots, this is the time to gently fold them in as well. Stir everything together until the chicken and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the luscious sauce. Ensure every piece of chicken is embraced by the creamy goodness!
Step 4: Prepare the Buttery Ritz Topping
In a separate medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Toss them together until the cracker crumbs are evenly moistened with butter. This step is crucial for achieving that signature golden-brown, crispy topping that makes this casserole irresistible. The buttery coating ensures a fantastic crunch in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the chicken and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker crumbs uniformly over the top of the casserole. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be divine!
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
While this is a comforting dish, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re consuming. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Healthier Alternatives: Making it Lighter Without Sacrificing Flavor
Looking to lighten up this classic without compromising on that creamy, crunchy goodness? Here are a few simple swaps that can make a significant difference:
- Leaner Protein: Instead of a full rotisserie chicken, use de-boned and skinless chicken breast for a lower fat option.
- Lighter Cream Base: Substitute half of the cream of chicken soup with a low-sodium chicken broth or a can of light cream of mushroom soup. Use light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt in place of full-fat sour cream.
- Whole Wheat Crackers: Swap some or all of the Ritz crackers for whole wheat crackers, crushed. While the flavor profile will be slightly different, you’ll get added fiber. Consider adding a sprinkle of whole wheat breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil for a similar crunch.
- Add More Veggies: Bulk up the casserole with extra vegetables like steamed broccoli florets, spinach, or green beans. This adds volume, nutrients, and fiber while reducing the overall calorie density per serving.
Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Best with This Comfort Classic?
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a meal in itself, but it also shines when served alongside complementary dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans steamed to perfection are healthy and delicious companions.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an ultimate comfort food experience, serve a small portion alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
- Dinner Rolls: Warm, soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Over-mixing the Topping: Don’t over-mix the butter and cracker crumbs. You want a crumbly, not mushy, topping.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a not-hot-enough oven can lead to a soggy bottom and uneven cooking.
- Using Dry Chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist. Rotisserie chicken is usually quite good for this. If using oven-baked chicken, make sure it’s not overcooked.
- Skipping the Butter for the Topping: While the crackers have butter flavor, coating them in melted butter is what makes them truly crispy and golden brown.
Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Casserole
Leftovers are a blessing! Here’s how to store and reheat your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole:
- Storing: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes). You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the topping may lose some of its crispness. To revive the crispness of the topping, you can finish it under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Embrace the Cozy: Your New Go-To Casserole
This Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed for success, bringing warmth and comfort to your table with minimal fuss. Give it a try this week and discover why it’s a beloved classic for a reason!
Have you tried this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts or any creative additions you made in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! If using fresh chicken breasts, cook them until done (boil, bake, or pan-fry), then shred or dice them before adding them to the casserole mixture. Ensure the cooked chicken is still moist.
Q: How can I make the topping extra crispy?
To ensure an extra crispy topping, make sure the cracker crumbs are thoroughly coated in melted butter. You can also toast the buttered crumbs slightly in a separate pan for a few minutes before topping the casserole, or broil on low heat for a minute or two after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Q: Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 12-24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Q: What are other good vegetables to add to this casserole?
Bell peppers (diced), mushrooms (sliced or chopped), or even a can of drained creamed corn can be delicious additions. Just ensure they are prepared (chopped, drained) before mixing them in.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Description
ThisRitz Cracker Chicken Casseroleis a comforting and creamy dish with a crunchy, buttery topping. Made with rotisserie chicken and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 10.5 ozcream of chicken with herbs soup (Campbell’s recommended)¾ cupsour cream½ cuplow-sodium chicken broth1 tspseasoned salt (Lowry’s recommended)½ tspgarlic powder¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cupsour cream½ cuplow-sodium chicken broth1 tspseasoned salt (Lowry’s recommended)½ tspgarlic powder¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- ½ cuplow-sodium chicken broth1 tspseasoned salt (Lowry’s recommended)½ tspgarlic powder¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- 1 tspseasoned salt (Lowry’s recommended)½ tspgarlic powder¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- ½ tspgarlic powder¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- ¼ tspblack pepper3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- 3 cupsrotisserie chicken, diced into¾to1-inch pieces2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- 2 cupscrushed Ritz crackers6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
- 6 tbspunsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- 1️⃣Preheat the oven:Set your oven to350°F (175°C). Place an8×8-inchcasserole dish onto a rimmed baking tray and set aside.2️⃣Prepare the sauce:In a large mixing bowl, stir together thecream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and black pepperuntil smooth and well combined.3️⃣Add the chicken:Gently fold thediced rotisserie chickeninto the sauce mixture, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.4️⃣Assemble the casserole:Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer.5️⃣Make the cracker topping:In a medium bowl, stir together thecrushed Ritz crackersandmelted butteruntil evenly coated.6️⃣Top and bake:Sprinkle thebuttery cracker crumbsevenly over the casserole. Bake for25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.7️⃣Serve:Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
- 2️⃣Prepare the sauce:In a large mixing bowl, stir together thecream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and black pepperuntil smooth and well combined.
- 3️⃣Add the chicken:Gently fold thediced rotisserie chickeninto the sauce mixture, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.4️⃣Assemble the casserole:Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer.5️⃣Make the cracker topping:In a medium bowl, stir together thecrushed Ritz crackersandmelted butteruntil evenly coated.6️⃣Top and bake:Sprinkle thebuttery cracker crumbsevenly over the casserole. Bake for25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.7️⃣Serve:Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
- 4️⃣Assemble the casserole:Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer.5️⃣Make the cracker topping:In a medium bowl, stir together thecrushed Ritz crackersandmelted butteruntil evenly coated.6️⃣Top and bake:Sprinkle thebuttery cracker crumbsevenly over the casserole. Bake for25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.7️⃣Serve:Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
- 5️⃣Make the cracker topping:In a medium bowl, stir together thecrushed Ritz crackersandmelted butteruntil evenly coated.
- 6️⃣Top and bake:Sprinkle thebuttery cracker crumbsevenly over the casserole. Bake for25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.7️⃣Serve:Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
- 7️⃣Serve:Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
For extra flavor, add½ cup shredded cheddar cheeseto the chicken mixture.If you like a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last2 minutesof baking.Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
If you like a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last2 minutesof baking.Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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