When it comes to easy, satisfying comfort food, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a must-try! This dish combines tender, shredded chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, melted cheese, and a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, offering a simple yet delicious meal that the whole family will love.
With minimal prep and a short baking time, this creamy chicken casserole is ideal for busy schedules. Plus, it’s highly customisable—you can add veggies, swap cheeses, or even add a little spice to make it your own!
Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Adds a rich, creamy base.
- 1 cup sour cream – Enhances the creaminess and adds slight tang.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Provides extra depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the chicken and sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight kick.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for a cheesy, gooey casserole.
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed – Adds a buttery, crispy topping.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps create the perfect golden-brown crust.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Shred the Chicken – If using rotisserie chicken, remove the meat from the bones and shred it. If cooking your own, boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts, then shred them with two forks.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Filling
- Mix the Sauce – In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the Cheese and Chicken – Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded chicken, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
Step 3: Assembling the Casserole
- Spread the Mixture – Pour the rich and creamy chicken filling into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, creating an even layer that will bake uniformly. This step helps the flavors blend together and provides a sturdy base for the crispy Ritz cracker topping.
Step 4: Adding the Ritz Cracker Topping
- Crush the Crackers – Place the Ritz crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or your hands.
- Mix with Butter – In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter and stir until evenly coated.
- Top the Casserole – Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling.
Step 5: Baking the Casserole
- Bake – Place the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping turns a golden brown and the filling starts bubbling around the edges. This ensures the flavors meld together while keeping the casserole perfectly creamy.
- Let It Rest – Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set, making it easier to scoop and serve without falling apart.
- Garnish & Serve – For the finishing touch, sprinkle dried parsley over the top to add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy chicken, melted cheese, and crispy Ritz cracker topping!
Expert Tips for the Best Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
How to Keep It Creamy and Flavorful
- Use full-fat ingredients – Sour cream and cheddar cheese with full fat create a richer, creamier texture.
- Don’t overbake – Baking for too long can dry out the casserole. Remove it from the oven as soon as the edges start bubbling and the cracker topping is golden brown.
- Season to taste – Taste the sauce before mixing it with the chicken and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Customizing the Recipe with Add-Ins
One of the best things about Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Add Vegetables – For extra nutrition and flavor, stir in frozen peas, chopped broccoli, mushrooms, or sautéed bell peppers. These veggies not only add color and texture but also enhance the overall heartiness of the dish. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can even mix in some diced carrots or corn.
- Use Different Cheese – While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses for a unique twist. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese can provide a creamy and slightly different flavor profile, while smoked gouda or Colby Jack can add a touch of depth and richness to the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.
- Make It Spicy – If you love bold flavors, turn up the heat by adding ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the mixture. For even more spice, try using a spicy cheddar or pepper jack cheeseand drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top before serving.
By incorporating these add-ins, you can elevate your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole into a personalized, flavorful dish that suits any occasion!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage and reheating guidelines:
- Refrigeration – Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the cracker topping from becoming soggy too quickly.
- Reheating – For the best results, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes. The oven method helps restore the crispiness of the buttery Ritz cracker topping, giving the dish its signature crunch.
- Freezing – If you want to make this dish ahead of time, assemble the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. This ensures that the flavors remain fresh while preserving the perfect texture.
Creative Variations of the Recipe
One of the best things about Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is how easily it can be customized to fit different flavor preferences. Whether you love spicy foods, extra cheese, or a boost of veggies, these variations will take your casserole to the next level.
Buffalo Chicken Ritz Casserole
For a spicy, tangy twist, mix ½ cup of buffalo sauce into the creamy chicken mixture before baking. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick, and top it off with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing before serving. If you love heat, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes over the buttery Ritz cracker topping for even more spice.
Broccoli and Cheese Version
If you want to add some greens, stir 1 ½ cups of steamed, chopped broccoli into the creamy chicken mixture. This version pairs beautifully with cheddar or Swiss cheese, creating a comforting, cheesy dish with added texture and nutrition. You can also try using cauliflower or spinach for a different veggie-packed variation of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Casserole
For a bold, Tex-Mex-inspired dish, add ½ cup of diced jalapeños to the filling. Swap out cheddar for Colby Jack or a Mexican blend cheese, and consider mixing in a little smoked paprika or cumin for extra depth. Serve with a side of sour cream or avocado to balance the heat while keeping the dish creamy and satisfying.
Each of these variations brings a new dimension to Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, making it a versatile recipe you can enjoy in different ways. Which variation sounds best to you?d sprinkle the top with a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
This casserole pairs well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or buttered corn on the cob.
Conclusion
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole delivers the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures, making it a comforting favorite for any occasion. Whether you need a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, or an easy make-ahead dinner, this recipe is the perfect solution. Plus, with so many ways to customize it—whether by adding veggies, switching up the cheese, or giving it a spicy twist—you can tailor it to your tastes and make it uniquely yours every time!
For more delicious comfort food recipes, check out Crispy Homemade Onion Rings or try a classic Chicken BroccoliCheddar Soup.