Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole transforms simple ingredients into the ultimate comfort food with a crispy, buttery topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. The contrast between the creamy chicken filling and crunchy crackers creates a texture sensation that makes this dish irresistible for weeknight dinners.

I first made this casserole when my sister brought her new boyfriend home for dinner. The empty dish and his three servings told me this recipe needed to become part of our regular rotation. Now it appears on our table at least twice a month.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken: Perfect for using rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken
• 1 can cream of chicken soup: Creates the rich creamy base without complicated sauce making
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and velvety texture to balance the richness
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle onion flavor without the prep or texture of fresh onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the dish
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors but adjust based on how salty your chicken already is
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Fresh ground offers the best flavor profile
• 1 1/2 sleeves Ritz crackers: Coarsely crushed, the star ingredient that creates the irresistible golden topping
• 1/2 cup melted butter: Binds the crackers and creates that beautiful golden crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 350°F and take time to thoroughly grease your 9x13 baking dish. A light coating of cooking spray or butter prevents sticking and makes serving much easier. The right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust without burning.

Mix the Creamy Filling:

In a large mixing bowl combine the shredded chicken with cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Add all seasonings onion powder garlic powder salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy mixture. This ensures consistent flavor throughout the casserole.

Create the Base Layer:

Transfer your chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish using a spatula to spread it evenly from corner to corner. Take your time here to ensure an even thickness which guarantees uniform cooking and proper texture throughout the casserole.

Prepare the Buttery Topping:

In a separate bowl pour melted butter over the crushed Ritz crackers. Gently fold together until every crumb is glistening with butter. The butter not only adds richness but also ensures the crackers will toast to a perfect golden brown rather than burn.

Add the Signature Crunch:

Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly across the entire surface of the chicken layer. Try to achieve a consistent layer of crackers covering every inch of the creamy base to create that perfect textural contrast in every bite.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the uncovered dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You will know it is done when the edges are bubbling and the cracker topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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The Ritz crackers truly make this dish special. I have tried other crackers but nothing compares to the buttery flavor and perfect texture that Ritz provides. My grandmother used to make a similar casserole for Sunday dinners and the familiar aroma always brings back memories of family gathered around her dining table.

Make Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and actually benefits from some time in the refrigerator. Prepare the chicken mixture and place it in your baking dish then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Wait to add the cracker topping until just before baking to maintain that perfect crunch. If you are preparing from refrigerated add about 10 minutes to your baking time.

Easy Variations

While this classic version is always a hit you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition. Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for an even richer casserole. You can even use turkey instead of chicken making this perfect for holiday leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans make excellent vegetable companions. For a heartier meal consider adding a side of cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast or buttered egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce.

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Enjoy this comforting classic and make some memories around the dinner table—it is sure to please every time!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Colby with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor. Harder cheeses often yield a better crust topping.

→ What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

You can bake the dough on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof pot with a lid. Cover it with foil for the first part of baking to mimic the steam effect of a Dutch oven.

→ How do I make sure the bread rises properly?

Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can leave the dough in a slightly warmed (and turned off) oven for better rising.

→ Can I freeze the dough or the bread?

You can freeze the dough after its initial rise. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Baked bread can also be frozen and reheated in the oven.

→ How do I avoid the dough sticking to my hands?

Lightly flour your hands and work surface. The dough is meant to be sticky, but using a dough scraper can help handle it more easily.