Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

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I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food, and this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is one of those dishes that delivers cozy, creamy satisfaction with every bite. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone at the table go back for seconds. The golden, buttery cracker topping adds the perfect crunch to the creamy chicken filling, and the whole thing comes together so easily that it’s become one of my go-to weeknight favorites.

Whether I’m using leftover rotisserie chicken or baking fresh chicken breasts just for this recipe, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The casserole bakes up beautifully golden and bubbly, filling the kitchen with the kind of warm, savory aroma that gets everyone excited for dinner. It’s homey, hearty, and a little nostalgic—and that’s exactly why I love it.

Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

This casserole checks all the boxes for an easy, satisfying meal. It’s rich and creamy, with just the right amount of crunch. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can prep it ahead of time, freeze it, or throw it together in under an hour. Plus, the ingredient list is simple, and you might already have everything in your pantry.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I like using shredded rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and full of flavor, but any cooked chicken will work—boiled, baked, or even leftover grilled chicken. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and tender. This casserole is forgiving, so use what you have!

Options for Substitutions

You can easily tailor this dish to what’s in your fridge. Don’t have sour cream? Use plain Greek yogurt. Out of cream of chicken soup? Cream of mushroom or cream of celery work too. Want to make it a bit healthier? Swap in light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. And if you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and a soup alternative.

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Ingredients for this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Cooked, shredded chicken – This is the heart of the casserole. I prefer rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor, but any cooked chicken works.
• Cream of chicken soup – Adds the creamy, savory base that binds everything together. You can use homemade or canned.
• Sour cream – Brings a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the dish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the casserole for extra gooeyness and cheesy flavor.
• Ritz crackers – Crushed and tossed with butter, they create that golden, buttery, crunchy topping.
• Butter – Helps brown the cracker topping to crispy perfection.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – These add subtle depth and savoriness.
• Salt and pepper – For simple seasoning to taste.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps ensure nothing sticks and gives the casserole a nice even bake.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, half of the shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even layering.

Step 4: Make the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are coated and have that golden buttery look.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cracker Crust

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken layer. Then evenly distribute the buttery cracker crumbs on top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving if you’d like a bit of color.

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How Long to Prepare the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

This casserole is perfect when you need something fast but satisfying.

Preparation Time: If you already have cooked chicken on hand, prep time is only about 10–15 minutes. It’s just mixing ingredients and layering them into the baking dish. If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, add another 20–25 minutes depending on the method.

Baking Time: The casserole bakes for about 25–30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until it’s bubbly and the cracker topping is perfectly golden.

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Tips for Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Use high-quality cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than the pre-shredded kind.
• Don’t skip the butter in the topping – It’s key to that crispy, golden crust.
• Mix well but gently – Overmixing can break down the chicken too much.
• Let it rest – Allow it to sit for 5 minutes after baking to set up slightly and make serving easier.
• Garnish last-minute – Add parsley right before serving for that vibrant green pop.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using raw chicken – The chicken must be fully cooked before adding to the mixture.
• Overbaking – It can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye around the 25-minute mark.
• Too much salt – Be cautious with seasoning since the soup and cheese already contain salt.
• Skipping the grease on the baking dish – It helps prevent sticking and burning.
• Cracker topping too early – Don’t add the topping too far ahead or it can get soggy.

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What to Serve With Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

1. Steamed Green Beans

A fresh and simple veggie side to balance the creamy richness of the casserole.

2. Classic Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons pair well with the soft, cheesy main dish.

3. Roasted Carrots

A touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavor.

4. Garlic Bread

For when you want an extra indulgent, carb-filled dinner.

5. Cranberry Sauce

For a fun twist—especially around the holidays—it adds a sweet-tart contrast.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warm.

Freezer: You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To cook from frozen, bake covered at 350°F for 40–50 minutes, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~420 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to crush Ritz crackers?

Place them in a zip-top bag and roll over them with a rolling pin or crush them with your hands. Don’t turn them into powder—you want texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything except the cracker topping, refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then add the topping just before baking.

Can I use other crackers or toppings?

Sure. Panko breadcrumbs or buttery club crackers work well as alternatives.

Can I add vegetables to the mix?

Absolutely. Frozen peas, diced cooked carrots, or even broccoli can be stirred in with the chicken mixture.

How do I make it lighter?

Use reduced-fat cheese, light sour cream, and a low-sodium soup base.

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Conclusion

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is everything comfort food should be—rich, creamy, buttery, and satisfying. It’s easy to throw together and works just as well for a family dinner as it does for taking to a potluck. With plenty of options to customize or lighten it up, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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