Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ritz Chicken Casserole is a go-to recipe when you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. The combination of cooked chicken, creamy soup, and a Ritz cracker topping makes for an irresistibly satisfying dish. The creamy sauce is rich and velvety, while the buttery Ritz crackers provide a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the softness of the casserole. Plus, it’s an incredibly easy recipe to prepare with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed)
1/4 cup melted butter
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray.
Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Add the chicken and cheese: Add the cooked chicken and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until the chicken and cheese are evenly coated with the sauce.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs. Stir in the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Top the casserole: Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting casserole with a side of vegetables or a simple salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with cooked vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or a combination of your favorite veggies for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to the sauce for extra flavor.
Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
Cheese variations: Feel free to use a different type of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Ritz Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if the casserole has dried out a bit.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce. It’ll save you time and add extra flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

3. Can I freeze Ritz Chicken Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

4. Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, if you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can substitute with other types of crackers like saltines or buttery crackers. The texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar cheese for a different type like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, to make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and make sure that the cream of chicken soup and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ritz Chicken Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. The creamy chicken filling combined with the buttery, crispy Ritz cracker topping creates a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe, so feel free to make it your own by adding extra ingredients like vegetables, different cheeses, or spices. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole will quickly become a favorite that everyone will love.