Indulge in the creamy, savory flavors of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. This casserole combines tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and the irresistible crunch of Ritz crackers on top. Perfect for weeknight meals or potlucks, this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Get ready to impress with this satisfying comfort food that brings everyone to the table!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the mixture and stir well.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also use gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free dish.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months; just adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soggy.
- Not shredding the chicken finely can lead to uneven cooking.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can result in longer cooking times.
- Overbaking can dry out the chicken.
- Using stale crackers may affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor.
- Top with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
- For a kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
This dish goes well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Can I use different crackers?
Absolutely! While Ritz crackers give a buttery flavor, you can use any type of cracker, such as Town House or saltines, for a different taste.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
How do I make it spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for some heat.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a delightful and easy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy filling and crunchy topping, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Try it tonight and enjoy the smiles at your dinner table!
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
- 1/4 cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper; stir well.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
