This Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this dish is pure cozy goodness in every bite. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole has got you covered.
The first time I made this, my family wiped their plates clean and went back for seconds! It’s rich, satisfying, and takes minimal effort to prepare. If you love easy casseroles, this will quickly become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in under 10 minutes before baking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves this creamy, buttery dish!
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins for extra flavor.
Best Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers You Need
This is hands down one of the easiest, tastiest casseroles you’ll ever make! With shredded chicken coated in a creamy sauce and topped with crispy, buttery Ritz crackers, every bite is a perfect balance of texture and flavor. This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy nights when you need something quick, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients Notes
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken – A rotisserie chicken is perfect for this.
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken with herbs soup – Adds extra flavor and creaminess.
- 1 cup sour cream – Gives the casserole its rich and tangy taste.
- ½ cup sliced green onion – Adds a pop of freshness and subtle onion flavor.
For the Topping:
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed – Creates a buttery, crispy topping.
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted – Ensures the topping gets golden and delicious.
Optional Add-Ons
Want to customize this casserole? Here are some tasty add-ons:
- Shredded Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Bacon Bits: Sprinkle in crispy cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Veggies: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for a heartier dish.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Preh eat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 2.5-quart baking dish (or a 9×9 dish) with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Using a glass baking dish helps you monitor the golden crust on top!
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and sliced green onions until fully combined. Stir in the shredded chicken and coat everything evenly.
Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up!
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Pro Tip: Press the filling down gently to create an even layer for the crunchy topping to sit on!
Make the Ritz Cracker Topping
In the same bowl (no need to dirty another!), mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are coated. Evenly sprinkle the cracker mixture over the chicken filling.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of panko breadcrumbs with the crackers.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Pro Tip: If the topping is browning too fast, tent the dish with foil and finish baking.
Storage and Serving
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw before baking.
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken for the easiest prep!
- Crush the Ritz crackers finely for a more even topping.
- Add a little garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking before serving.
Variations
- Healthier Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and whole wheat crackers.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded cheese for a melty, gooey texture.
- Low-Carb: Swap the Ritz crackers for almond flour crackers or crushed pork rinds.
What Others Are Saying About This Recipe
- “My kids are obsessed with this casserole! We make it at least twice a month.” – Sarah J.
- “So simple yet SO delicious! I brought it to a potluck, and everyone asked for the recipe.” – Emily R.
- “I added bacon and cheese—wow, it was amazing!” – Jessica T.
- “This is my new go-to comfort food. It reminds me of my grandma’s cooking!” – Megan L.
FAQs about Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Can I use a different soup instead of cream of chicken?
Yes! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery works great as a substitute.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Use two forks, a stand mixer, or buy pre-shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use unsalted butter instead?
Yes, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the topping.
In Conclusion of Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
This Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, buttery, crispy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest for later!
