Imagine coming home after a long day, feeling famished and desperate for a comforting dinner that doesn’t take hours to make. That’s where the Ritz chicken casserole comes in! This classic dish is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy chicken and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, making it both comforting and satisfying. Not only is it super easy to prepare, but it’s also an affordable and crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

In this article, we’ll dive into the magic of Ritz chicken casserole—exploring why it’s a kitchen favorite, how to make it, and why it’s the go-to choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner in the kitchen, or someone who just loves easy-to-make comfort food, this recipe is perfect for you. Ready to get started? Let’s jump into how to make this delicious dish and why it should be your next go-to meal!

What Makes Ritz Chicken Casserole So Irresistible?

Before we get to the recipe, let’s discuss what makes Ritz chicken casserole such a fan favorite. This dish’s beauty lies in its simplicity and perfect blend of flavors.

Ritz Chicken Casserole A Comforting, Easy Meal for Busy Weeknights

Creamy, Cheesy Goodness
The chicken is baked in a rich, creamy sauce made from ingredients like cream of chicken soup, sour cream, or even cream cheese. This base not only keeps the chicken moist but also adds layers of flavor that create a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Crunchy Ritz Cracker Topping
The magic truly happens with the Ritz crackers. When baked, the crackers form a golden, buttery crust that adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy casserole below. It’s the perfect contrast in textures!
Easy and Quick
Unlike many casseroles that require hours of prep or cooking time, this Ritz cracker chicken casserole comes together quickly and bakes in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Ritz Chicken Casserole

Now that we know what makes this dish special, let’s get into how to make it. The recipe is simple, and you likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge!

Ingredients:

2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more if you love cheese!)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers (crushed)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup broccoli florets (optional, for added nutrition)

Instructions:

Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly and the crackers get that perfect golden crunch.
Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, go ahead and either boil or shred a rotisserie chicken. You’ll need about 2 cups of shredded chicken for this recipe.
Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Casserole
Add your shredded chicken to the bowl with the sauce and mix until the chicken is evenly coated. If you’re adding broccoli for a little extra veggie power, stir it in as well. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with Ritz Crackers
Crush the Ritz crackers (you can do this by hand or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin) and sprinkle them generously over the casserole. Drizzle the melted butter on top for a buttery finish.
Bake and Serve
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations to Make Your Ritz Chicken Casserole Even Better

While the classic Ritz chicken casserole recipe is already delicious on its own, here are a few tips and variations to take it to the next level:

Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for an extra nutritional boost. Broccoli is a popular choice since it complements the creamy sauce so well.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can even sprinkle jalapeños on top before baking for a zesty kick.
Cheese Lovers: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. Adding extra cheese to the top will make it extra gooey and irresistible.
Make It in Advance: This casserole is great for meal prep. Assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Gluten-Free Option: You can swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the dish.

FAQs About Ritz Chicken Casserole

1. Is it okay to put raw chicken in a casserole?

Yes, you can put raw chicken in a casserole, but you must ensure that it is fully cooked before serving. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for it to be safe to eat. If using raw chicken, make sure the cooking time and temperature allow the chicken to cook thoroughly without drying out other ingredients.

2. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for a casserole?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use:

Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
Panko crumbs for extra crunch
Saltine crackers for a similar texture but a bit less buttery flavor
Cornflakes crushed for a crispy topping
Pretzels crushed for a salty, crunchy alternative
Gluten-free crackers if you’re looking for a gluten-free substitute

3. What thickens chicken casserole?

The chicken casserole can be thickened using:

Flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water to make a slurry
Heavy cream or sour cream for added creaminess and thickness
Potato flakes for a quick thickening solution
Cheese which melts into the sauce and thickens it
Mashed potatoes or a small amount of pureed vegetables like carrots or potatoes to naturally thicken the dish

4. What’s the difference between chicken stew and chicken casserole?

The main differences are:

Serving Style: Stews are often served with bread or rice on the side, while casseroles are more self-contained meals with added ingredients like rice, pasta, or vegetables baked together.

Cooking Method: Chicken stew is typically cooked on the stovetop in a pot with liquid, while chicken casserole is baked in the oven.

Liquid Content: Stews generally have more liquid, making them more soupy, whereas casseroles have less liquid and are thicker.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious and easy Ritz chicken casserole recipe that will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re making it for your family or preparing a meal for a friend, this casserole is sure to satisfy and impress. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy Ritz crackers is a winning formula for any busy home cook.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. Share your thoughts in the comments, or tag us on social media if you make this recipe. We’d love to hear how it turned out!

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