Amazing Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole in 30 Mins

Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole has been a staple in my family for years, a dish that instantly brings a sense of warmth and togetherness. I remember my mom making it on chilly evenings, the aroma of creamy chicken and buttery crackers filling our home. It’s that perfect blend of tender chicken, a luxuriously smooth sauce, and that irresistible crunch from the Ritz topping. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish, and I’m so excited to share this simple Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with you. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole

This dish is pure magic for so many reasons!

• It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it the perfect Easy Ritz Chicken Casserole for busy weeknights.
• The combination of tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce is pure bliss.
• That buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping is simply divine and adds amazing texture.
• It’s the ultimate Comfort food Ritz Chicken Casserole that always satisfies.
• You likely have most of the ingredients on hand already.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
• The aroma while it bakes is absolutely intoxicating.

Ingredients for Easy Ritz Chicken Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making the most delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. I love how accessible everything is!

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience!
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup – This forms the creamy base of our casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds extra richness and a slight tang to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional) – For a fresh, oniony bite.
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed – These buttery crackers are key for that classic crunchy topping.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted – To bind the cracker crumbs and make them golden brown.

How to Make Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole

Making this delightful Chicken and Ritz Casserole is a breeze, and the result is pure comfort food heaven. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and crunchy bake!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and gets that lovely golden crust.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine your 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken, the 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup, and the 1 cup sour cream. If you’re using green onions, toss them in now for a fresh bite. Mix everything gently until it’s well combined and looks wonderfully creamy.
3. Step 3: Spread this luscious chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it covers the bottom completely, creating a smooth surface for the topping.
4. Step 4: Now for that irresistible topping! Take your sleeve of Ritz crackers and crush them into coarse crumbs – I like to use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin for this. In a separate small bowl, pour in the 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted, and add the crushed Ritz crackers. Stir until the crumbs are thoroughly coated in butter, looking ready to turn golden.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle this buttery Ritz cracker crumb mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. This is crucial for achieving that perfect Ritz Cracker topping chicken casserole texture that everyone loves.
6. Step 6: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that topping to be beautifully golden brown and the casserole underneath to be delightfully bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be amazing!
7. Step 7: Once it’s out of the oven, let the Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and ensuring every bite is perfectly saucy and delicious.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Ritz Chicken Casserole

I’ve made this dish countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. These tips will help you achieve that perfect, comforting result every time.

• For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden hue, consider adding about 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture before topping with the crumbs. It makes for a wonderfully Cheesy Ritz Chicken Casserole.
• Don’t skimp on crushing the Ritz crackers, but aim for a mix of fine crumbs and some slightly larger pieces for varied texture.
• If you like a little kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes mixed into the chicken filling adds a subtle warmth.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole?

The magic truly lies in the buttery Ritz cracker topping and the creamy chicken filling. Using good quality sour cream and ensuring the crackers are well-coated in butter before baking guarantees that irresistible crunch and rich flavor. For more information on achieving perfect textures in cooking, you can explore resources on cooking chicken.

Can I make Ritz Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Chicken Ritz bake, minus the cracker topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the buttered cracker crumbs right before baking, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a great tip for meal prep, similar to how one might prepare breakfast casseroles in advance.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers?

A common pitfall is a soggy topping; ensure your cracker crumbs are thoroughly mixed with melted butter. Also, avoid over-mixing the chicken and sauce, as this can make the casserole dense rather than creamy and tender.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole

This delicious Creamy chicken bake with Ritz crackers is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a truly classic comfort food experience, I love serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Another favorite is a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a touch of freshness and color on the plate. Mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf are also excellent companions, soaking up any extra creamy sauce beautifully. Honestly, this casserole is so hearty, it can almost stand alone, but these pairings just make it sing!

Nutrition Facts for Easy Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole

When you’re enjoying a heaping spoonful of this delicious Chicken casserole with crushed Ritz, knowing the nutritional breakdown can be helpful for your meal planning. This breakdown is based on approximately 1/6 of the casserole.

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 30g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 15g
• Protein: Approximately 28g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
• Fiber: Approximately 2g
• Sugar: Approximately 5g
• Sodium: Approximately 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information on common ingredients, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Ritz Chicken Casserole

Don’t let any of this deliciousness go to waste! Properly storing and reheating your Ritz Chicken Casserole ensures you can enjoy it again and again. Once the casserole has cooled slightly, about 20-30 minutes after baking, you can store leftovers. For refrigeration, place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly or store the whole pan (if it’s freezer-safe) in an airtight container or heavy-duty foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your Ritz Cracker Chicken bake leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Transfer a portion to an oven-safe dish and warm at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the topping!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole

Can I make this Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole without condensed soup?

While the condensed cream of chicken soup is traditional for this Ritz Chicken Casserole no soup, you can create a creamy sauce from scratch. Whisk together 1 1/2 cups of milk or half-and-half with 1/4 cup of flour, then cook over medium heat until thickened. Stir in some chicken broth for flavor, and you’ll have a delicious base for your casserole. This method is similar to making a béchamel sauce, a fundamental technique in many cuisines.

What makes this an Easy chicken Ritz casserole recipe?

The simplicity is its superpower! It uses readily available ingredients and requires minimal prep time, often under 15 minutes. The magic happens as the oven does most of the work, transforming basic ingredients into a comforting and delicious meal. It’s truly one of the most straightforward chicken bakes you can make. For other easy chicken recipes, check out this Honey Lime Chicken Crockpot Recipe.

How do I make the Ritz cracker topping extra crispy?

For the crispiest topping on your Chicken casserole with Ritz crackers, ensure the butter is fully melted and coats all the crushed cracker crumbs evenly. Baking at the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C) and not overcrowding the oven with other dishes can also help. Some people even like to broil it for the last minute or two, watching very carefully to prevent burning!

Can I add vegetables to my Ritz Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! This dish is very forgiving and adaptable. You can easily mix in a cup or two of cooked vegetables like peas, corn, broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms into the chicken mixture before topping it with the buttery Ritz crumbs. It’s a fantastic way to add extra nutrients and flavor to your Chicken Ritz bake. For other ideas on incorporating vegetables into chicken dishes, consider exploring Jerk Chicken Sides.

Variations of Ritz Chicken Casserole You Can Try

This classic dish is fantastic as is, but it’s also super adaptable! If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few ways to put a new spin on your Chicken casserole with crushed Ritz.

• For a Cheesy Twist: Stir in about a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese into the chicken mixture before adding the topping. This makes for an extra gooey and irresistible Cheesy Ritz Chicken Casserole.
• Lighter Version: Use reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup and low-fat sour cream. You can also opt for whole wheat crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a slightly different texture and a lighter profile.
• Add Veggies: Mix in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or steamed broccoli florets into the chicken mixture. This adds color, nutrients, and extra flavor to your Chicken Ritz bake.
• Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of chopped pickled jalapeños to the chicken filling. It complements the creamy, savory flavors wonderfully.

Amazing Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole in 30 Mins

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A rich and comforting chicken casserole featuring tender shredded chicken enveloped in a creamy sauce, all crowned with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or serving to guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional)
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and green onions (if using).
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Crush the Ritz crackers and mix them with the melted butter in a separate bowl.
5. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the chicken mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Let the Creamy Ritz Chicken Casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• For added flavor, you can mix in vegetables like peas or broccoli, or add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
• To lighten the dish, consider using low-sodium cream of chicken soup and unsalted butter.
• Dried herbs like thyme or garlic powder, or red pepper flakes can be added for extra flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat and maintain crispiness, warm the casserole in the oven at 325°F.
• The casserole can be assembled ahead of time without the cracker topping and refrigerated. Add the topping just before baking.
• This Ritz Chicken Casserole can also be frozen unbaked without the topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the topping and baking.
• Rotisserie chicken is recommended for its convenience and flavor, but any cooked shredded chicken will work.
• Other buttery crackers like Town House or club crackers can be substituted for Ritz crackers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1/6 of the casserole
• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal

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